Substituted bicyclic aza-heterocycles and analogues as sirtuin modulators

ABSTRACT

Provided herein are novel substituted bicyclic aza-heterocycle sirtuin-modulating compounds and methods of use thereof. The sirtuin-modulating compounds may be used for increasing the lifespan of a cell, and treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, cancer, and/or flushing as well as diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity. Also provided are compositions comprising a sirtuin-modulating compound in combination with another therapeutic agent.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. application Ser. No. 14/353,096, filed Apr. 21, 2014, which is a 371 of International Application No. PCT/US2012/061015, filed Oct. 19, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/549,730, filed Oct. 20, 2011, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

The Silent Information Regulator (SIR) family of genes represents a highly conserved group of genes present in the genomes of organisms ranging from archaebacteria to eukaryotes. The encoded SIR proteins are involved in diverse processes from regulation of gene silencing to DNA repair. A well-characterized gene in this family is S. cerevisiae SIR2, which is involved in silencing HM loci that contain information specifying yeast mating type, telomere position effects and cell aging. The yeast Sir2 protein belongs to a family of histone deacetylases. The proteins encoded by members of the SIR gene family show high sequence conservation in a 250 amino acid core domain. The Sir2 homolog, CobB, in Salmonella typhimurium, functions as an NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)-dependent ADP-ribosyl transferase.

The Sir2 protein is a class III deacetylase which uses NAD as a cosubstrate. Unlike other deacetylases, many of which are involved in gene silencing, Sir2 is insensitive to class I and II histone deacetylase inhibitors like trichostatin A (TSA).

Deacetylation of acetyl-lysine by Sir2 is tightly coupled to NAD hydrolysis, producing nicotinamide and a novel acetyl-ADP ribose compound. The NAD-dependent deacetylase activity of Sir2 is essential for its functions, which can connect its biological role with cellular metabolism in yeast. Mammalian Sir2 homologs have NAD-dependent histone deacetylase activity.

Biochemical studies have shown that Sir2 can readily deacetylate the amino-terminal tails of histones H3 and H4, resulting in the formation of 2′/3′-O-acetyl-ADP-ribose (OAADPR) and nicotinamide. Strains with additional copies of SIR2 display increased rDNA silencing and a 30% longer life span. It has alsobeen shown that additional copies of the C. elegans SIR2 homolog, sir-2.1, and the D. melanogaster dSir2 gene extend life span in those organisms. This implies that the SIR2-dependent regulatory pathway for aging arose early in evolution and has been well conserved. Today, Sir2 genes are believed to have evolved to enhance an organism's health and stress resistance to increase its chance of surviving adversity.

In humans, there are seven Sir2-like genes (SIRT1-SIRT7) that share the conserved catalytic domain of Sir2. SIRT1 is a nuclear protein with the highest degree of sequence similarity to Sir2. SIRT1 regulates multiple cellular targets by deacetylation including the tumor suppressor p53, the cellular signaling factor NF-κB, and the FOXO transcription factor.

SIRT3 is a homolog of SIRT1 that is conserved in prokaryotes and eukaryotes. The SIRT3 protein is targeted to the mitochondrial cristae by a unique domain located at the N-terminus. SIRT3 has NAD⁺-dependent protein deacetylase activity and is ubiquitously expressed, particularly in metabolically active tissues. Upon transfer to the mitochondria, SIRT3 is believed to be cleaved into a smaller, active form by a mitochondrial matrix processing peptidase (MPP).

Caloric restriction has been known for over 70 years to improve the health and extend the lifespan of mammals. Yeast life span, like that of metazoans, is also extended by interventions that resemble caloric restriction, such as low glucose. The discovery that both yeast and flies lacking the SIR2 gene do not live longer when calorically restricted provides evidence that SIR2 genes mediate the beneficial health effects of a restricted calorie diet. Moreover, mutations that reduce the activity of the yeast glucose-responsive cAMP (adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate)-dependent (PKA) pathway extend life span in wild type cells but not in mutant sir2 strains, demonstrating that SIR2 is likely to be a key downstream component of the caloric restriction pathway.

SUMMARY

Provided herein are novel sirtuin-modulating compounds and methods of use thereof.

In one aspect, the invention provides sirtuin-modulating compounds of Structural Formulas (I) and (II) as are described in detail below.

In another aspect, the invention provides methods for using sirtuin-modulating compounds, or compositions comprising sirtuin-modulating compounds. In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for a variety of therapeutic applications including, for example, increasing the lifespan of a cell, and treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, chemotherapeutic-induced neuropathy, neuropathy associated with an ischemic event, ocular diseases and/or disorders, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, and/or flushing, etc. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used for treating a disease or disorder in a subject that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity, for enhancing muscle performance, for increasing muscle ATP levels, or for treating or preventing muscle tissue damage associated with hypoxia or ischemia. In other embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that decrease the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for a variety of therapeutic applications including, for example, increasing cellular sensitivity to stress, increasing apoptosis, treatment of cancer, stimulation of appetite, and/or stimulation of weight gain, etc. As described further below, the methods comprise administering to a subject in need thereof a pharmaceutically effective amount of a sirtuin-modulating compound.

In certain aspects, the sirtuin-modulating compounds may be administered alone or in combination with other compounds, including other sirtuin-modulating compounds, or other therapeutic agents.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION 1. Definitions

As used herein, the following terms and phrases shall have the meanings set forth below. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art.

The term “agent” is used herein to denote a chemical compound, a mixture of chemical compounds, a biological macromolecule (such as a nucleic acid, an antibody, a protein or portion thereof, e.g., a peptide), or an extract made from biological materials such as bacteria, plants, fungi, or animal (particularly mammalian) cells or tissues.

The term “bioavailable”, when referring to a compound, is art-recognized and refers to a form of a compound that allows for all or a portion of the amount of compound administered to be absorbed by, incorporated into, or otherwise physiologically available to a subject or patient to whom it is administered.

“Biologically active portion of a sirtuin” refers to a portion of a sirtuin protein having a biological activity, such as the ability to deacetylate (“catalytically active”). Catalytically active portions of a sirtuin may comprise the core domain of sirtuins. Catalytically active portions of SIRT1 having GenBank Accession No. NP_036370 that encompass the NAD⁺ binding domain and the substrate binding domain, for example, may include without limitation, amino acids 240-664 or 240-505 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by the polynucleotide of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238. Therefore, this region is sometimes referred to as the core domain. Other catalytically active portions of SIRT1, also sometimes referred to as core domains, include about amino acids 261 to 447 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 834 to 1394 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238; about amino acids 242 to 493 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 777 to 1532 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238; or about amino acids 254 to 495 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 813 to 1538 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238. Another “biologically active” portion of SIRT1 is amino acids 62-293 or 183-225 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which comprise a domain N-terminal to the core domain that is important to the compound binding site.

The term “companion animals” refers to cats and dogs. As used herein, the term “dog(s)” denotes any member of the species Canis familiaris, of which there are a large number of different breeds. The term “cat(s)” refers to a feline animal including domestic cats and other members of the family Felidae, genus Felis.

“Diabetes” refers to high blood sugar or ketoacidosis, as well as chronic, general metabolic abnormalities arising from a prolonged high blood sugar status or a decrease in glucose tolerance. “Diabetes” encompasses both the type I and type II (Non Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus or NIDDM) forms of the disease. The risk factors for diabetes include the following factors: waistline of more than 40 inches for men or 35 inches for women, blood pressure of 130/85 mmHg or higher, triglycerides above 150 mg/dl, fasting blood glucose greater than 100 mg/dl or high-density lipoprotein of less than 40 mg/dl in men or 50 mg/dl in women.

The term “ED₅₀” refers to the art-recognized measure of effective dose. In certain embodiments, ED₅₀ means the dose of a drug which produces 50% of its maximum response or effect, or alternatively, the dose which produces a pre-determined response in 50% of test subjects or preparations, such as isolated tissue or cells. The term “LD₅₀” refers to the art-recognized measure of lethal dose. In certain embodiments, LD₅₀ means the dose of a drug which is lethal in 50% of test subjects. The term “therapeutic index” is an art-recognized term which refers to the therapeutic index of a drug, defined as LD₅₀/ED₅₀.

The term “hyperinsulinemia” refers to a state in an individual in which the level of insulin in the blood is higher than normal.

The term “insulin resistance” refers to a state in which a normal amount of insulin produces a subnormal biologic response relative to the biological response in a subject that does not have insulin resistance.

An “insulin resistance disorder,” as discussed herein, refers to any disease or condition that is caused by or contributed to by insulin resistance. Examples include: diabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, insulin-resistance syndromes, syndrome X, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, hypertension, high blood cholesterol, dyslipidemia, hyperlipidemia, atherosclerotic disease including stroke, coronary artery disease or myocardial infarction, hyperglycemia, hyperinsulinemia and/or hyperproinsulinemia, impaired glucose tolerance, delayed insulin release, diabetic complications, including coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, stroke, cognitive functions in dementia, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, nephropathy, glomerulonephritis, glomerulosclerosis, nephrotic syndrome, hypertensive nephrosclerosis, some types of cancer (such as endometrial, breast, prostate, and colon), complications of pregnancy, poor female reproductive health (such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, irregular ovulation, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)), lipodystrophy, cholesterol-related disorders, such as gallstones, cholecystitis and cholelithiasis, gout, obstructive sleep apnea and respiratory problems, osteoarthritis, and bone loss, e.g., osteoporosis in particular.

The term “livestock animals” refers to domesticated quadrupeds, which includes those being raised for meat and various byproducts, e.g., a bovine animal including cattle and other members of the genus Bos, a porcine animal including domestic swine and other members of the genus Sus, an ovine animal including sheep and other members of the genus Ovis, domestic goats and other members of the genus Capra; domesticated quadrupeds being raised for specialized tasks such as use as a beast of burden, e.g., an equine animal including domestic horses and other members of the family Equidae, genus Equus.

The term “mammal” is known in the art, and exemplary mammals include humans, primates, livestock animals (including bovines, porcines, etc.), companion animals (e.g., canines, felines, etc.) and rodents (e.g., mice and rats).

“Obese” individuals or individuals suffering from obesity are generally individuals having a body mass index (BMI) of at least 25 or greater. Obesity may or may not be associated with insulin resistance.

The terms “parenteral administration” and “administered parenterally” are art-recognized and refer to modes of administration other than enteral and topical administration, usually by injection, and includes, without limitation, intravenous, intramuscular, intraarterial, intrathecal, intracapsular, intraorbital, intracardiac, intradermal, intraperitoneal, transtracheal, subcutaneous, subcuticular, intra-articular, subcapsular, subarachnoid, intraspinal, and intrastemal injection and infusion.

A “patient”, “subject”, “individual” or “host” refers to either a human or a non-human animal.

The term “pharmaceutically acceptable carrier” is art-recognized and refers to a pharmaceutically-acceptable material, composition or vehicle, such as a liquid or solid filler, diluent, excipient, solvent or encapsulating material, involved in carrying or transporting any subject composition or component thereof. Each carrier must be “acceptable” in the sense of being compatible with the subject composition and its components and not injurious to the patient. Some examples of materials which may serve as pharmaceutically acceptable carriers include: (1) sugars, such as lactose, glucose and sucrose; (2) starches, such as corn starch and potato starch; (3) cellulose, and its derivatives, such as sodium carboxymethyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose and cellulose acetate; (4) powdered tragacanth; (5) malt; (6) gelatin; (7) talc; (8) excipients, such as cocoa butter and suppository waxes; (9) oils, such as peanut oil, cottonseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, olive oil, corn oil and soybean oil; (10) glycols, such as propylene glycol; (11) polyols, such as glycerin, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene glycol; (12) esters, such as ethyl oleate and ethyl laurate; (13) agar; (14) buffering agents, such as magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide; (15) alginic acid; (16) pyrogen-free water; (17) isotonic saline; (18) Ringer's solution; (19) ethyl alcohol; (20) phosphate buffer solutions; and (21) other non-toxic compatible substances employed in pharmaceutical formulations.

The term “preventing” is art-recognized, and when used in relation to a condition, such as a local recurrence (e.g., pain), a disease such as cancer, a syndrome complex such as heart failure or any other medical condition, is well understood in the art, and includes administration of a composition which reduces the frequency of, or delays the onset of, symptoms of a medical condition in a subject relative to a subject which does not receive the composition. Thus, prevention of cancer includes, for example, reducing the number of detectable cancerous growths in a population of patients receiving a prophylactic treatment relative to an untreated control population, and/or delaying the appearance of detectable cancerous growths in a treated population versus an untreated control population, e.g., by a statistically and/or clinically significant amount. Prevention of an infection includes, for example, reducing the number of diagnoses of the infection in a treated population versus an untreated control population, and/or delaying the onset of symptoms of the infection in a treated population versus an untreated control population. Prevention of pain includes, for example, reducing the magnitude of, or alternatively delaying, pain sensations experienced by subjects in a treated population versus an untreated control population.

The term “prophylactic” or “therapeutic” treatment is art-recognized and refers to administration of a drug to a host. If it is administered prior to clinical manifestation of the unwanted condition (e.g., disease or other unwanted state of the host animal) then the treatment is prophylactic, i.e., it protects the host against developing the unwanted condition, whereas if administered after manifestation of the unwanted condition, the treatment is therapeutic (i.e., it is intended to diminish, ameliorate or maintain the existing unwanted condition or side effects therefrom).

The term “pyrogen-free”, with reference to a composition, refers to a composition that does not contain a pyrogen in an amount that would lead to an adverse effect (e.g., irritation, fever, inflammation, diarrhea, respiratory distress, endotoxic shock, etc.) in a subject to which the composition has been administered. For example, the term is meant to encompass compositions that are free of, or substantially free of, an endotoxin such as, for example, a lipopolysaccharide (LPS).

“Replicative lifespan” of a cell refers to the number of daughter cells produced by an individual “mother cell.” “Chronological aging” or “chronological lifespan,” on the other hand, refers to the length of time a population of non-dividing cells remains viable when deprived of nutrients. “Increasing the lifespan of a cell” or “extending the lifespan of a cell,” as applied to cells or organisms, refers to increasing the number of daughter cells produced by one cell; increasing the ability of cells or organisms to cope with stresses and combat damage, e.g., to DNA, proteins; and/or increasing the ability of cells or organisms to survive and exist in a living state for longer under a particular condition, e.g., stress (for example, heatshock, osmotic stress, high energy radiation, chemically-induced stress, DNA damage, inadequate salt level, inadequate nitrogen level, or inadequate nutrient level). Lifespan can be increased by at least about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60% or between 20% and 70%, 30% and 60%, 40% and 60% or more using methods described herein.

“Sirtuin-modulating compound” refers to a compound that increases the level of a sirtuin protein and/or increases at least one activity of a sirtuin protein. In an exemplary embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound may increase at least one biological activity of a sirtuin protein by at least about 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%, or more. Exemplary biological activities of sirtuin proteins include deacetylation, e.g., of histones and p53; extending lifespan; increasing genomic stability; silencing transcription; and controlling the segregation of oxidized proteins between mother and daughter cells.

“Sirtuin protein” refers to a member of the sirtuin deacetylase protein family, or preferably to the sir2 family, which include yeast Sir2 (GenBank Accession No. P53685), C. elegans Sir-2.1 (GenBank Accession No. NP_501912), and human SIRT1 (GenBank Accession No. NM_012238 and NP_036370 (or AF083106)) and SIRT2 (GenBank Accession No. NM_012237, NM_030593, NP_036369, NP_085096, and AF083107) proteins. Other family members include the four additional yeast Sir2-like genes termed “HST genes” (homologues of Sir two) HST1, HST2, HST3 and HST4, and the five other human homologues hSIRT3, hSIRT4, hSIRT5, hSIRT6 and hSIRT7 (Brachmann et al. (1995) Genes Dev. 9:2888 and Frye et al. (1999) BBRC 260:273). Preferred sirtuins are those that share more similarities with SIRT1, i.e., hSIRT1, and/or Sir2 than with SIRT2, such as those members having at least part of the N-terminal sequence present in SIRT1 and absent in SIRT2 such as SIRT3 has.

“SIRT1 protein” refers to a member of the sir2 family of sirtuin deacetylases. In certain embodiments, a SIRT1 protein includes yeast Sir2 (GenBank Accession No. P53685), C. elegans Sir-2.1 (GenBank Accession No. NP_501912), human SIRT1 (GenBank Accession No. NM_012238 or NP_036370 (or AF083106)), and equivalents and fragments thereof. In another embodiment, a SIRT1 protein includes a polypeptide comprising a sequence consisting of, or consisting essentially of, the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession Nos. NP_036370, NP_501912, NP_085096, NP_036369, or P53685. SIRT1 proteins include polypeptides comprising all or a portion of the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession Nos. NP_036370, NP_501912, NP_085096, NP_036369, or P53685; the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession Nos. NP_036370, NP_501912, NP_085096, NP_036369, or P53685 with 1 to about 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 50, 75 or more conservative amino acid substitutions; an amino acid sequence that is at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to GenBank Accession Nos. NP_036370, NP_501912, NP_085096, NP_036369, or P53685, and functional fragments thereof. Polypeptides of the invention also include homologs (e.g., orthologs and paralogs), variants, or fragments, of GenBank Accession Nos. NP_036370, NP_501912, NP_085096, NP_036369, or P53685.

As used herein “SIRT2 protein”, “SIRT3 protein”, “SIRT4 protein”, SIRT5 protein”, “SIRT6 protein”, and “SIRT7 protein” refer to other mammalian, e.g. human, sirtuin deacetylase proteins that are homologous to SIRT1 protein, particularly in the approximately 275 amino acid conserved catalytic domain. For example, “SIRT3 protein” refers to a member of the sirtuin deacetylase protein family that is homologous to SIRT1 protein. In certain embodiments, a SIRT3 protein includes human SIRT3 (GenBank Accession No. AAH01042, NP_036371, or NP_001017524) and mouse SIRT3 (GenBank Accession No. NP_071878) proteins, and equivalents and fragments thereof. In another embodiment, a SIRT3 protein includes a polypeptide comprising a sequence consisting of, or consisting essentially of, the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession Nos. AAH01042, NP_036371, NP_001017524, or NP_071878. SIRT3 proteins include polypeptides comprising all or a portion of the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession AAH01042, NP_036371, NP_001017524, or NP_071878; the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession Nos. AAH01042, NP_036371, NP_001017524, or NP_071878 with 1 to about 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 50, 75 or more conservative amino acid substitutions; an amino acid sequence that is at least 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99% identical to GenBank Accession Nos. AAH01042, NP_036371, NP_001017524, or NP_071878, and functional fragments thereof. Polypeptides of the invention also include homologs (e.g., orthologs and paralogs), variants, or fragments, of GenBank Accession Nos. AAH01042, NP_036371, NP_001017524, orNP 071878. In certain embodiments, a SIRT3 protein includes a fragment of SIRT3 protein that is produced by cleavage with a mitochondrial matrix processing peptidase (MPP) and/or a mitochondrial intermediate peptidase (MIP).

The term “steroisomer” as used herein is art-recognized and refers to any of two or more isomers that have the same molecular constitution and differ only in the three-dimensional arrangement of their atomic groupings in space. When used herein to describe a compounds or genus of compounds, stereoisomer includes any portion of the compound or the compound in its entirety. For example, diastereomers and enantiomers are stereoisomers.

The terms “systemic administration” and “administered systemically,” are art-recognized and refer to the administration of a subject composition, therapeutic or other material enterally or parenterally.

The term “tautomer” as used herein is art-recognized and refers to any one of the possible alternative structures that may exist as a result of tautomerism, which refers to a form of constitutional isomerism in which a structure may exist in two or more constitutional arrangements, particularly with respect to the position of hydrogens bonded to oxygen. When used herein to describe a compound or genus of compounds, it is further understood that a “tautomer” is readily interconvertible and exists in equilibrium. For example, keto and enol tautomers exist in proportions determined by the equilibrium position for any given condition, or set of conditions:

The term “therapeutic agent” is art-recognized and refers to any biologically, physiologically, or pharmacologically active substance that acts locally or systemically in a subject. The term also means any substance intended for use in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment or prevention of disease or in the enhancement of desirable physical or mental development and/or conditions in an animal or human.

The term “therapeutic effect” is art-recognized and refers to a beneficial local or systemic effect in animals, particularly mammals, and more particularly humans, caused by a pharmacologically active substance. The phrase “therapeutically-effective amount” means that amount of such a substance that produces some desired local or systemic effect at a reasonable benefit/risk ratio applicable to any treatment. The therapeutically effective amount of such substance will vary depending upon the subject and disease condition being treated, the weight and age of the subject, the severity of the disease condition, the manner of administration and the like, which can readily be determined by one of skill in the art. For example, certain compositions described herein may be administered in a sufficient amount to produce a desired effect at a reasonable benefit/risk ratio applicable to such treatment.

“Treating” a condition or disease refers to curing as well as ameliorating at least one symptom of the condition or disease.

The term “vision impairment” refers to diminished vision, which is often only partially reversible or irreversible upon treatment (e.g., surgery). Particularly severe vision impairment is termed “blindness” or “vision loss”, which refers to a complete loss of vision, vision worse than 20/200 that cannot be improved with corrective lenses, or a visual field of less than 20 degrees diameter (10 degrees radius).

2. Compounds

In one aspect, the invention provides novel compounds for treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, ocular diseases and disorders, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, cancer, and/or flushing, etc. Subject compounds, such as sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein, may also be used for treating a disease or disorder in a subject that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity, for enhancing muscle performance, for increasing muscle ATP levels, or for treating or preventing muscle tissue damage associated with hypoxia or ischemia. Compounds disclosed herein may be suitable for use in pharmaceutical compositions and/or one or more methods disclosed herein.

In certain embodiments, compounds of the invention are represented by Structural Formula (I):

wherein one of D and E is N and the other is C; and

when D is N, one of A and B is N and the other is CR; and

when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR;

or a salt thereof, wherein:

each R is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, OH, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₂-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, OR³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, S—(C₁-C₂ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₅-C₇ cycloalkyl, and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle, and when one or both of E and A is N, then R can additionally be selected from halo-substituted methyl and C₃-C₄ cycloalkyl;

R¹ is an aromatic heterocycle or a fused carbocycle, wherein R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR^(x)R^(x)—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), CR^(x)R^(x), phenyl, O-phenyl, second heterocycle, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle, or second heterocycle substituent of R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl);

R² is a carbocycle or a heterocycle, wherein R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O-phenyl, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and when E is N, substituents on R² can be additionally selected from a second heterocycle, and when both D and A are N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from phenyl and a second heterocycle, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle or second heterocycle substituent of R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl);

each R³ is independently selected from hydrogen and C₁-C₄ alkyl optionally substituted with one or more of OH, —O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), halo, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂ and N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂; or

two R³ are taken together with the nitrogen or carbon atom to which they are bound to form a 4- to 8-membered saturated heterocycle optionally comprising one additional heteroatom selected independently from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the heterocycle formed by two R³ is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, O(C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), or N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl;

two R^(x) taken together with the carbon atom to which they are bound form a 4- to 8-membered carbocycle or heterocycle optionally comprising one or two heteroatoms independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the carbocycle or heterocycle is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, and N(R³)(R³) and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; and

when D is N, A is CR, and B is N, then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵-†; and when E is N, B is N, and A is N or CR, then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CH₂—NH—C(═O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O—† and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵—; and

when D is N, A is N, and B is CR, then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, C(═O)—NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH† and CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O-†;

wherein:

† represents where X is bound to R¹; and

each R⁴ and R⁵ is independently selected from hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alkyl, CF₃ and (C₁-C₃ alkyl)-CF₃.

In certain embodiments both E and B are N. In particular embodiments, E, B and A are N. In such embodiments, the compound of Structural Formula (I) is represented by Structural Formula (Ia):

In other embodiments, E and B are N and A is CR. In such embodiments, the compound of Structural Formula (I) is represented by Structural Formula (Ib):

In certain embodiments both D and B are N and A is CR. In such embodiments, the compound of Structural Formula (I) is represented by Structural Formula (Ic):

In certain embodiments both D and A are N and B is CR. In such embodiments, the compound of Structural Formula (I) is represented by Structural Formula (Id):

For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R at each occurrence may be selected from hydrogen, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, O—R³ and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle, such as selected from hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alkyl, and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle. For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R¹ may be selected from optionally substituted aromatic heterocycle, such as pyridinyl, thiazolyl, oxazolyl, pyrimidinyl, pyrazole, triazole, imidazole, pyrazine and pyridazine. For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R¹ may be selected from optionally substituted

For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R¹ may be selected from

In more particular embodiments, R¹ is selected from:

For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R² may be selected from optionally substituted carbocycle and optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle. In particular, R² may be selected from optionally substituted aromatic carbocycle and optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle. For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R² may be selected from optionally substituted non-aromatic carbocycle and optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle. For example, R² may be selected from an optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle and R² may be attached to the remainder of the compound by a nitrogen atom of R².

For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R² may be selected from optionally substituted aromatic carbocycle, such as phenyl. For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R² may be selected from optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle, e.g., nitrogen-containing heterocycles, such as pyrrolidine, piperidine and azetidine.

For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), R² may be selected from optionally substituted

In particular, R² may be selected from:

In more particular embodiments, R² is selected from

For any of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), X may be selected from amide such as C(═O)—NH—† or NH—C(═O)†. In particular embodiments, X is C(═O)—NH—†. In particular embodiments, X is —NH—C(═O)-†.

In any of the preceding embodiments, R at each occurrence may be selected from hydrogen, halo, OH, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₂-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, OR³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, S—(C₁-C₂ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₅-C₇ cycloalkyl, and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle, and when one or both of E and A is N, then R can additionally be selected from halo-substituted methyl and C₃-C₄ cycloalkyl.

In certain embodiments, the compound is any one of Compound Numbers 14, 94, 97, 98, 99, 100, 105, 119, 143, 159, 164, 165, 224, 225, 226, 230, 233, 301, 308, 318, 342, 344, 355, 370, 379, 424, 474, 479, 537, 577, 581, 586, 601, 638, 661, 665, 668, 684, 703, 761, 801, 806, 811, 812, 870, 880, 890, 918, 924, 925 928, 945, 953, 957, 958, 959, 966, 968, 969, 970, 974, 978, 979, 986, 990, 994, 998, 999, 1000, 1001, 1005, 1007, 1009, 1010, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1015, 1016, 1017, 1018, 1020, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1027, 1028, 1029, 1030, 1031, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1036, 1046, 1047, 1048, 1049, 1050, 1060, 1062, 1063, 1064, 1066, 1069, 1071, 1072, 1073, 1074, 1077, 1080, 1081, 1082, 1083, 1085, 1086, 1087, 1092, 1096 and 1098 in Table 1.

The invention includes pharmaceutical compositions of any of the compounds of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), or as otherwise set forth above. The pharmaceutical composition of the compound of Structural Formulas (I), (Ia), (Ib), (Ic), or (Id), may comprise one or more pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or diluents.

In certain embodiments, compounds of the invention are represented by Structural Formula (II):

or a salt thereof, wherein:

each R′ is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle;

each R″ is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, C≡N, chloro- or bromo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle;

R¹ is an aromatic heterocycle, wherein R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, —O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR^(x)R^(x)—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), CR^(x)R^(x), phenyl, O-phenyl, second heterocycle, 0-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle, or second heterocycle substituent of R¹ is optionally substituted with halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₂ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), and N(R³)(R³);

R² is a carbocycle or a heterocycle, wherein R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(O)—N(R³)(R³), O-phenyl, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle or second heterocycle substituent of R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), and N(R³)(R³);

each R³ is independently selected from hydrogen and C₁-C₄ alkyl optionally substituted with one or more of OH, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), halo, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂ and N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂; or

two R³ are taken together with the nitrogen or carbon atom to which they are bound to form a 4- to 8-membered saturated heterocycle optionally comprising one additional heteroatom independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the heterocycle formed by two R³ is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂ and N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl;

two R^(x) taken together with the carbon atom to which they are bound form a 4- to 8-membered carbocycle or heterocycle optionally comprising one or two heteroatoms independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the carbocycle or heterocycle is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, N(R³)(R³), and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; and

X is selected from NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)NH-†, NH—C(═O)NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH† and CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O-†, wherein:

† represents where X is bound to R¹; and

each R⁴ and R⁵ is independently hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alkyl, CF₃ or (C₁-C₃ alkyl)-CF₃.

In any of the preceding embodiments, a C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted group may include one or more alkoxy substituents such as one, two or three methoxy groups or a methoxy group and an ethoxy group, for example. Exemplary C₁-C₄ alkoxy substituents include methoxy, ethoxy, isopropoxy, and tert-butoxy.

In any of the preceding embodiments, a hydroxy-substituted group may include one or more hydroxy substituents, such as two or three hydroxy groups.

In any of the preceding embodiments, a “halo-substituted” group includes from one halo substituent up to perhalo substitution. Exemplary halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl includes CFH₂, CClH₂, CBrH₂, CF₂H, CCl₂H, CBr₂H, CF₃, CCl₃, CBr₃, CH₂CH₂F, CH₂CH₂Cl, CH₂CH₂Br, CH₂CHF₂, CHFCH₃, CHClCH₃, CHBrCH₃, CF₂CHF₂, CF₂CHCl₂, CF₂CHBr₂, CH(CF₃)₂, and C(CF₃)₃. Perhalo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, for example, includes CF₃, CCl₃, CBr₃, CF₂CF₃, CCl₂CF₃ and CBr₂CF₃.

In any of the preceding embodiments, a “carbocycle” group may refer to a monocyclic carbocycle embodiment and/or a polycyclic carbocycle embodiment, such as a fused, bridged or bicyclic carbocycle embodiment. “Carbocycle” groups of the invention may further refer to an aromatic carbocycle embodiment and/or a non-aromatic carbocycle embodiment, or, in the case of polycyclic embodiments, a carbocycle having both one or more aromatic rings and/or one or more non-aromatic rings. Polycyclic carbocycle embodiments may be a bicyclic ring, a fused ring or a bridged bicycle. Non-limiting exemplary carbocycles include phenyl, cyclohexane, cyclopentane, or cyclohexene, amantadine, cyclopentane, cyclohexane, bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane, 1,5-cyclooctadiene, 1,2,3,4-ttrahydronaphthalene, bicyclo[4.2.0]oct-3-ene, naphthalene, adamantane, decalin, naphthalene, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene, norbomane, decalin, spiropentane, memantine, biperiden, rimantadine, camphor, cholesterol, 4-phenylcyclcohexanol, bicyclo[4.2.0]octane, memantine and 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-indene and bicyclo[4.1.0]hept-3-ene.

In any of the preceding embodiments, a “heterocycle” group may refer to a monocyclic heterocycle embodiment and/or a polycyclic heterocyclic embodiment, such as a fused, bridged or bicyclic heterocycle embodiment. “Heterocycle” groups of the invention may further refer to an aromatic heterocycle embodiment and/or a non-aromatic heterocycle embodiment, or, in the case of polycyclic embodiments, a heterocycle having both one or more aromatic rings and/or one or more non-aromatic rings. Polycyclic heterocycle embodiments may be a bicyclic ring, a fused ring or a bridged bicycle. Non-limiting exemplary heterocycles include pyridyl, pyrrolidine, piperidine, piperazine, pyrrolidine, morpholine, pyrimidine, benzofuran, indole, quinoline, lactones, lactams, benzodiazepine, indole, quinoline, purine, adenine, guanine, 4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole, hexamine and methenamine.

Certain compounds of the present invention may exist in particular geometric or stereoisomeric forms. The present invention contemplates all such compounds, including cis- and trans-isomers, (R)- and (S)-enantiomers, diastereomers, (D)-isomers, (L)-isomers, the racemic mixtures thereof, and other mixtures thereof, as falling within the scope of the invention. Additional asymmetric carbon atoms may be present in a substituent such as an alkyl group. All such isomers, as well as mixtures thereof, are intended to be included in this invention.

Compounds of the invention, including novel compounds of the invention, can also be used in the methods described herein.

The compounds and salts thereof described herein can also be present as the corresponding hydrates (e.g., hemihydrate, monohydrate, dihydrate, trihydrate, tetrahydrate) or solvates. Suitable solvents for preparation of solvates and hydrates can generally be selected by a skilled artisan.

The compounds and salts thereof can be present in amorphous or crystalline (including co-crystalline and polymorph) forms.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds of the invention advantageously modulate the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein, particularly the deacetylase activity of the sirtuin protein.

Separately or in addition to the above properties, certain sirtuin-modulating compounds of the invention do not substantially have one or more of the following activities: inhibition of PI3-kinase, inhibition of aldoreductase, inhibition of tyrosine kinase, transactivation of EGFR tyrosine kinase, coronary dilation, or spasmolytic activity, at concentrations of the compound that are effective for modulating the deacetylation activity of a sirtuin protein (e.g., such as a SIRT1 and/or a SIRT3 protein).

An “alkyl” group or “alkane” is a straight chained or branched non-aromatic hydrocarbon which is completely saturated. Typically, a straight chained or branched alkyl group has from 1 to about 20 carbon atoms, preferably from 1 to about 10 unless otherwise defined. Examples of straight chained and branched alkyl groups include methyl, ethyl, n-propyl, iso-propyl, n-butyl, sec-butyl, tert-butyl, pentyl, hexyl, pentyl and octyl. A C₁-C₄ straight chained or branched alkyl group is also referred to as a “lower alkyl” group.

The terms “alkenyl” (“alkene”) and “alkynyl” (“alkyne”) refer to unsaturated aliphatic groups analogous in length and possible substitution to the alkyl groups described above, but that contain at least one double or triple bond respectively.

The term “aromatic carbocycle” refers to an aromatic hydrocarbon ring system containing at least one aromatic ring. The ring may be fused or otherwise attached to other aromatic carbocyclic rings or non-aromatic carbocyclic rings. Examples of aromatic carbocyclegroups include carbocyclic aromatic groups such as phenyl, naphthyl, and anthracyl.

“Azabicyclo” refers to a bicyclic molecule that contains a nitrogen atom in the ring skeleton. The two rings of the bicycle may be fused at two mutually bonded atoms, e.g., indole, across a sequence of atoms, e.g., azabicyclo[2.2.1]heptane, or joined at a single atom, e.g., spirocycle.

“Bicycle” or “bicyclic” refers to a two-ring system in which one, two or three or more atoms are shared between the two rings. Bicycle includes fused bicycles in which two adjacent atoms are shared by each of the two rings, e.g., decalin, indole. Bicycle also includes spiro bicycles in which two rings share a single atom, e.g., spiro[2.2]pentane, 1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.4]octane. Bicycle further includes bridged bicycles in which at least three atoms are shared between two rings, e.g., norbornane.

“Bridged bicycle” compounds are bicyclic ring systems in which at least three atoms are shared by both rings of the system, i.e., they include at least one bridge of one or more atoms connecting two bridgehead atoms. Bridged azabicyclo refers to a bridged bicyclic molecule that contains a nitrogen atom in at least one of the rings.

The terms “carbocycle”, and “carbocyclic”, as used herein, refers to a saturated or unsaturated ring in which each atom of the ring is carbon. The term carbocycle includes both aromatic carbocycles and non-aromatic carbocycles. Non-aromatic carbocycles include both cycloalkane rings, in which all carbon atoms are saturated, and cycloalkene rings, which contain at least one double bond. “Carbocycle” includes 5-7 membered monocyclic and 8-12 membered bicyclic rings. Each ring of a bicyclic carbocycle may be selected from non-aromatic and aromatic rings. Carbocycle includes bicyclic molecules in which one, two or three or more atoms are shared between the two rings. The term “fused carbocycle” refers to a bicyclic carbocycle in which each of the rings shares two adjacent atoms with the other ring. Each ring of a fused carbocycle may be selected from non-aromaticaromatic rings. In an exemplary embodiment, an aromatic ring, e.g., phenyl, may be fused to a non-aromatic or aromatic ring, e.g., cyclohexane, cyclopentane, or cyclohexene. Any combination of non-aromtatic and aromatic bicyclic rings, as valence permits, is included in the definition of carbocyclic. Exemplary “carbocycles” include cyclopentane, cyclohexane, bicyclo[2.2.1]heptane, 1,5-cyclooctadiene, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene, bicyclo[4.2.0]oct-3-ene, naphthalene and adamantane. Exemplary fused carbocycles include decalin, naphthalene, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthalene, bicyclo[4.2.0]octane, 4,5,6,7-tetrahydro-1H-indene and bicyclo[4.1.0]hept-3-ene. “Carbocycles” may be substituted at any one or more positions capable of bearing a hydrogen atom.

A “cycloalkyl” group is a cyclic hydrocarbon which is completely saturated (non-aromatic). Typically, a cycloalkyl group has from 3 to about 10 carbon atoms, more typically 3 to 8 carbon atoms unless otherwise defined. A “cycloalkenyl” group is a cyclic hydrocarbon containing one or more double bonds.

A “halogen” designates F, Cl, Br or I.

A “halogen-substitution” or “halo” substitution designates replacement of one or more hydrogens with F, Cl, Br or I.

The term “heteroaryl” or “aromatic heterocycle” includes substituted or unsubstituted aromatic single ring structures, preferably 5- to 7-membered rings, more preferably 5- to 6-membered rings, whose ring structures include at least one heteroatom, preferably one to four heteroatoms, more preferably one or two heteroatoms. The term “heteroaryl” also includes ring systems having one or two rings wherein at least one of the rings is heteroaromatic, e.g., the other cyclic rings can be cycloalkyl, cycloalkenyl, cycloalkynyl, aromatic carbocycle, heteroaryl, and/or heterocyclyl. Heteroaryl groups include, for example, pyrrole, furan, thiophene, imidazole, oxazole, thiazole, pyrazole, pyridine, pyrazine, pyridazine, and pyrimidine.

The terms “heterocycle”, and “heterocyclic”, as used herein, refers to a non-aromatic or aromatic ring comprising one or more heteroatoms selected from, for example, N, O, B and S atoms, preferably N, O, or S. The term “heterocycle” includes both “aromatic heterocycles” and “non-aromatic heterocycles.” Heterocycles include 4-7 membered monocyclic and 8-12 membered bicyclic rings. Heterocycle includes bicyclic molecules in which one, two or three or more atoms are shared between the two rings. Each ring of a bicyclic heterocycle may be selected from non-aromatic and aromatic rings. The term “fused heterocycle” refers to a bicyclic heterocycle in which each of the rings shares two adjacent atoms with the other ring. Each ring of a fused heterocycle may be selected from non-aromatic and aromatic rings. In an exemplary embodiment, an aromatic ring, e.g., pyridyl, may be fused to a non-aromatic or aromatic ring, e.g., cyclohexane, cyclopentane, pyrrolidine, 2,3-dihydrofuran or cyclohexene. “Heterocycle” groups include, for example, piperidine, piperazine, pyrrolidine, morpholine, pyrimidine, benzofuran, indole, quinoline, lactones, and lactams. Exemplary “fused heterocycles” include benzodiazepine, indole, quinoline, purine, and 4,5,6,7-tetrahydrobenzo[d]thiazole. “Heterocycles” may be substituted at any one or more positions capable of bearing a hydrogen atom.

“Monocyclic rings” include 5-7 membered aromatic carbocycle or heteroaryl, 3-7 membered cycloalkyl or cycloalkenyl, and 5-7 membered non-aromatic heterocyclyl. Exemplary monocyclic groups include substituted or unsubstituted heterocycles or carbocycles such as thiazolyl, oxazolyl, oxazinyl, thiazinyl, dithianyl, dioxanyl, isoxazolyl, isothiazolyl, triazolyl, furanyl, tetrahydrofuranyl, dihydrofuranyl, pyranyl, tetrazolyl, pyrazolyl, pyrazinyl, pyridazinyl, imidazolyl, pyridinyl, pyrrolyl, dihydropyrrolyl, pyrrolidinyl, piperidinyl, piperazinyl, pyrimidinyl, morpholinyl, tetrahydrothiophenyl, thiophenyl, cyclohexyl, cyclopentyl, cyclopropyl, cyclobutyl, cycloheptanyl, azetidinyl, oxetanyl, thiiranyl, oxiranyl, aziridinyl, and thiomorpholinyl.

As used herein, “substituted” means substituting a hydrogen atom in a structure with an atom or molecule other than hydrogen. A substitutable atom such as a “substitutable nitrogen” is an atom that bears a hydrogen atom in at least one resonance form. The hydrogen atom may be substituted for another atom or group such as a CH₃ or an OH group. For example, the nitrogen in a piperidine molecule is substitutable if the nitrogen is bound to a hydrogen atom. If, for example, the nitrogen of a piperidine is bound to an atom other than hydrogen, the nitrogen is not substitutable. An atom that is not capable of bearing a hydrogen atom in any resonance form is not substitutable.

Combinations of substituents and variables envisioned by this invention are only those that result in the formation of stable compounds. As used herein, the term “stable” refers to compounds that possess stability sufficient to allow manufacture and that maintain the integrity of the compound for a sufficient period of time to be useful for the purposes detailed herein.

The compounds disclosed herein also include partially and fully deuterated variants. In certain embodiments, deuterated variants may be used for kinetic studies. One of skill in the art can select the sites at which such deuterium atoms are present.

Also included in the present invention are salts, particularly pharmaceutically acceptable salts, of the compounds described herein. The compounds of the present invention that possess a sufficiently acidic, a sufficiently basic, or both functional groups, can react with any of a number of inorganic bases, and inorganic and organic acids, to form a salt. Alternatively, compounds that are inherently charged, such as those with a quaternary nitrogen, can form a salt with an appropriate counterion (e.g., a halide such as bromide, chloride, or fluoride, particularly bromide).

Acids commonly employed to form acid addition salts are inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, hydrobromic acid, hydroiodic acid, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and the like, and organic acids such as p-toluenesulfonic acid, methanesulfonic acid, oxalic acid, p-bromophenyl-sulfonic acid, carbonic acid, succinic acid, citric acid, benzoic acid, acetic acid, and the like. Examples of such salts include the sulfate, pyrosulfate, bisulfate, sulfite, bisulfite, phosphate, monohydrogenphosphate, dihydrogenphosphate, metaphosphate, pyrophosphate, chloride, bromide, iodide, acetate, propionate, decanoate, caprylate, acrylate, formate, isobutyrate, caproate, heptanoate, propiolate, oxalate, malonate, succinate, suberate, sebacate, fumarate, maleate, butyne-1,4-dioate, hexyne-1,6-dioate, benzoate, chlorobenzoate, methylbenzoate, dinitrobenzoate, hydroxybenzoate, methoxybenzoate, phthalate, sulfonate, xylenesulfonate, phenylacetate, phenylpropionate, phenylbutyrate, citrate, lactate, gamma-hydroxybutyrate, glycolate, tartrate, methanesulfonate, propanesulfonate, naphthalene-1-sulfonate, naphthalene-2-sulfonate, mandelate, and the like.

Base addition salts include those derived from inorganic bases, such as ammonium or alkali or alkaline earth metal hydroxides, carbonates, bicarbonates, and the like. Such bases useful in preparing the salts of this invention thus include sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, potassium carbonate, and the like.

According to another embodiment, the present invention provides methods of producing the above-defined compounds. The compounds may be synthesized using conventional techniques. Advantageously, these compounds are conveniently synthesized from readily available starting materials.

Synthetic chemistry transformations and methodologies useful in synthesizing the compounds described herein are known in the art and include, for example, those described in R. Larock, Comprehensive Organic Transformations (1989); T. W. Greene and P. G. M. Wuts, Protective Groups in Organic Synthesis, 2d. Ed. (1991); L. Fieser and M. Fieser, Fieser and Fieser's Reagents for Organic Synthesis (1994); and L. Paquette, ed., Encyclopedia of Reagents for Organic Synthesis (1995).

In an exemplary embodiment, a therapeutic compound may traverse the cytoplasmic membrane of a cell. For example, a compound may have a cell-permeability of at least about 20%, 50%, 75%, 80%, 90% or 95%.

Compounds described herein may also have one or more of the following characteristics: the compound may be essentially non-toxic to a cell or subject; the compound may be an organic molecule or a small molecule of 2000 amu or less, 1000 amu or less; a compound may have a half-life under normal atmospheric conditions of at least about 30 days, 60 days, 120 days, 6 months or 1 year; the compound may have a half-life in solution of at least about 30 days, 60 days, 120 days, 6 months or 1 year; a compound may be more stable in solution than resveratrol by at least a factor of about 50%, 2 fold, 5 fold, 10 fold, 30 fold, 50 fold or 100 fold; a compound may promote deacetylation of the DNA repair factor Ku70; a compound may promote deacetylation of RelA/p65; a compound may increase general turnover rates and enhance the sensitivity of cells to TNF-induced apoptosis.

In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound does not have any substantial ability to inhibit a histone deacetylase (HDAC) class I, and/or an HDAC class II at concentrations (e.g., in vivo) effective for modulating the deacetylase activity of the sirtuin. For instance, in preferred embodiments, the sirtuin-modulating compound is a sirtuin-modulating compound and is chosen to have an EC₅₀ for activating sirtuin deacetylase activity that is at least 5 fold less than the EC₅₀ for inhibition of an HDAC I and/or HDAC II, and even more preferably at least 10 fold, 100 fold or even 1000 fold less. Methods for assaying HDAC I and/or HDAC II activity are well known in the art and kits to perform such assays may be purchased commercially. See e.g., BioVision, Inc. (Mountain View, Calif.; world wide web at biovision.com) and Thomas Scientific (Swedesboro, N.J.; world wide web at tomassci.com).

In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound does not have any substantial ability to modulate sirtuin homologs. In certain embodiments, an activator of a human sirtuin protein may not have any substantial ability to activate a sirtuin protein from lower eukaryotes, particularly yeast or human pathogens, at concentrations (e.g., in vivo) effective for activating the deacetylase activity of human sirtuin. For example, a sirtuin-modulating compound may be chosen to have an EC₅₀ for activating a human sirtuin, such as SIRT1 and/or SIRT3, deacetylase activity that is at least 5 fold less than the EC₅₀ for activating a yeast sirtuin, such as Sir2 (such as Candida, S. cerevisiae, etc.), and even more preferably at least 10 fold, 100 fold or even 1000 fold less. In another embodiment, an inhibitor of a sirtuin protein from lower eukaryotes, particularly yeast or human pathogens, does not have any substantial ability to inhibit a sirtuin protein from humans at concentrations (e.g., in vivo) effective for inhibiting the deacetylase activity of a sirtuin protein from a lower eukaryote. For example, a sirtuin-inhibiting compound may be chosen to have an IC₅₀ for inhibiting a human sirtuin, such as SIRT1 and/or SIRT3, deacetylase activity that is at least 5 fold less than the IC₅₀ for inhibiting a yeast sirtuin, such as Sir2 (such as Candida, S. cerevisiae, etc.), and even more preferably at least 10 fold, 100 fold or even 1000 fold less.

In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound may have the ability to modulate one or more sirtuin protein homologs, such as, for example, one or more of human SIRT1, SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6, or SIRT7. In some embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound has the ability to modulate both a SIRT1 and a SIRT3 protein.

In other embodiments, a SIRT1 modulator does not have any substantial ability to modulate other sirtuin protein homologs, such as, for example, one or more of human SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6, or SIRT7, at concentrations (e.g., in vivo) effective for modulating the deacetylase activity of human SIRT1. For example, a sirtuin-modulating compound may be chosen to have an ED₅₀ for modulating human SIRT1 deacetylase activity that is at least 5 fold less than the ED₅₀ for modulating one or more of human SIRT2, SIRT3, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6, or SIRT7, and even more preferably at least 10 fold, 100 fold or even 1000 fold less. In some embodiments, a SIRT1 modulator does not have any substantial ability to modulate a SIRT3 protein.

In other embodiments, a SIRT3 modulator does not have any substantial ability to modulate other sirtuin protein homologs, such as, for example, one or more of human SIRT1, SIRT2, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6, or SIRT7, at concentrations (e.g., in vivo) effective for modulating the deacetylase activity of human SIRT3. For example, a sirtuin-modulating compound may be chosen to have an ED₅₀ for modulating human SIRT3 deacetylase activity that is at least 5 fold less than the ED₅₀ for modulating one or more of human SIRT1, SIRT2, SIRT4, SIRT5, SIRT6, or SIRT7, and even more preferably at least 10 fold, 100 fold or even 1000 fold less. In some embodiments, a SIRT3 modulator does not have any substantial ability to modulate a SIRT1 protein.

In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound may have a binding affinity for a sirtuin protein of about 10⁻⁹M, 10⁻¹⁰M, 10⁻¹¹M, 10⁻¹²M or less. A sirtuin-modulating compound may reduce (activator) or increase (inhibitor) the apparent Km of a sirtuin protein for its substrate or NAD⁺ (or other cofactor) by a factor of at least about 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, 30, 50 or 100. In certain embodiments, Km values are determined using the mass spectrometry assay described herein. Preferred activating compounds reduce the Km of a sirtuin for its substrate or cofactor to a greater extent than caused by resveratrol at a similar concentration or reduce the Km of a sirtuin for its substrate or cofactor similar to that caused by resveratrol at a lower concentration. A sirtuin-modulating compound may increase the Vmax of a sirtuin protein by a factor of at least about 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, 30, 50 or 100. A sirtuin-modulating compound may have an ED₅₀ for modulating the deacetylase activity of a SIRT1 and/or SIRT3 protein of less than about 1 nM, less than about 10 nM, less than about 100 nM, less than about 1 μM, less than about 10 μM, less than about 100 μM, or from about 1-10 nM, from about 10-100 nM, from about 0.1-1 μM, from about 1-10 μM or from about 10-100 μM. A sirtuin-modulating compound may modulate the deacetylase activity of a SIRT1 and/or SIRT3 protein by a factor of at least about 5, 10, 20, 30, 50, or 100, as measured in a cellular assay or in a cell based assay. A sirtuin-modulating compound may cause at least about 10%, 30%, 50%, 80%, 2 fold, 5 fold, 10 fold, 50 fold or 100 fold greater induction of the deacetylase activity of a sirtuin protein relative to the same concentration of resveratrol. A sirtuin-modulating compound may have an ED₅₀ for modulating SIRT5 that is at least about 10 fold, 20 fold, 30 fold, 50 fold greater than that for modulating SIRT1 and/or SIRT3.

3. Exemplary Uses

In certain aspects, the invention provides methods for modulating the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein and methods of use thereof.

In certain embodiments, the invention provides methods for using sirtuin-modulating compounds wherein the sirtuin-modulating compounds activate a sirtuin protein, e.g., increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be useful for a variety of therapeutic applications including, for example, increasing the lifespan of a cell, and treating and/or preventing a wide variety of diseases and disorders including, for example, diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, cancer, and/or flushing, etc. The methods comprise administering to a subject in need thereof a pharmaceutically effective amount of a sirtuin-modulating compound, e.g., a sirtuin-modulating compound.

Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that activators of the instant invention may interact with a sirtuin at the same location within the sirtuin protein (e.g., active site or site affecting the Km or Vmax of the active site). It is believed that this is the reason why certain classes of sirtuin activators and inhibitors can have substantial structural similarity.

In certain embodiments, the sirtuin-modulating compounds described herein may be taken alone or in combination with other compounds. In certain embodiments, a mixture of two or more sirtuin-modulating compounds may be administered to a subject in need thereof. In another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered with one or more of the following compounds: resveratrol, butein, fisetin, piceatannol, or quercetin. In an exemplary embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered in combination with nicotinic acid or nicotinamide riboside. In another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that decreases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered with one or more of the following compounds: nicotinamide (NAM), suramin; NF023 (a G-protein antagonist); NF279 (a purinergic receptor antagonist); Trolox (6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8,tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid); (−)-epigallocatechin (hydroxy on sites 3,5,7,3′,4′, 5′); (−)-epigallocatechin gallate (Hydroxy sites 5,7,3′,4′,5′ and gallate ester on 3); cyanidin chloride (3,5,7,3′,4′-pentahydroxyflavylium chloride); delphinidin chloride (3,5,7,3′,4′,5′-hexahydroxyflavylium chloride); myricetin (cannabiscetin; 3,5,7,3′,4′,5′-hexahydroxyflavone); 3,7,3′,4′,5′-pentahydroxyflavone; gossypetin (3,5,7,8,3′,4′-hexahydroxyflavone), sirtinol; and splitomicin. In yet another embodiment, one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds may be administered with one or more therapeutic agents for the treatment or prevention of various diseases, including, for example, cancer, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting, inflammation, flushing, obesity, aging, stress, etc. In various embodiments, combination therapies comprising a sirtuin-modulating compound may refer to (1) pharmaceutical compositions that comprise one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds in combination with one or more therapeutic agents (e.g., one or more therapeutic agents described herein); and (2) co-administration of one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds with one or more therapeutic agents wherein the sirtuin-modulating compound and therapeutic agent have not been formulated in the same compositions (but may be present within the same kit or package, such as a blister pack or other multi-chamber package; connected, separately sealed containers (e.g., foil pouches) that can be separated by the user; or a kit where the compound(s) and other therapeutic agent(s) are in separate vessels). When using separate formulations, the sirtuin-modulating compound may be administered simultaneous with, intermittent with, staggered with, prior to, subsequent to, or combinations thereof, the administration of another therapeutic agent.

In certain embodiments, methods for reducing, preventing or treating diseases or disorders using a compound described herein may also comprise increasing the protein level of a sirtuin, such as human SIRT1, SIRT2 and/or SIRT3, or homologs thereof. Increasing protein levels can be achieved by introducing into a cell one or more copies of a nucleic acid that encodes a sirtuin. For example, the level of a sirtuin can be increased in a mammalian cell by introducing into the mammalian cell a nucleic acid encoding the sirtuin, e.g., increasing the level of SIRT1 by introducing a nucleic acid encoding the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession No. NP_036370 and/or increasing the level of SIRT3 by introducing a nucleic acid encoding the amino acid sequence set forth in GenBank Accession No. AAH01042.

A nucleic acid that is introduced into a cell to increase the protein level of a sirtuin may encode a protein that is at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, or 99% identical to the sequence of a sirtuin, e.g., SIRT1 and/or SIRT3 protein. For example, the nucleic acid encoding the protein may be at least about 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, 98%, or 99% identical to a nucleic acid encoding a SIRT1 (e.g. GenBank Accession No. NM_012238) and/or SIRT3 (e.g., GenBank Accession No. BC001042) protein. The nucleic acid may also be a nucleic acid that hybridizes, preferably under stringent hybridization conditions, to a nucleic acid encoding a wild-type sirtuin, e.g., SIRT1 and/or SIRT3 protein. Stringent hybridization conditions may include hybridization and a wash in 0.2×SSC at 65° C. When using a nucleic acid that encodes a protein that is different from a wild-type sirtuin protein, such as a protein that is a fragment of a wild-type sirtuin, the protein is preferably biologically active, e.g., is capable of deacetylation. It is only necessary to express in a cell a portion of the sirtuin that is biologically active. For example, a protein that differs from wild-type SIRT1 having GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, preferably contains the core structure thereof. The core structure sometimes refers to amino acids 62-293 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 237 to 932 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238, which encompasses the NAD binding as well as the substrate binding domains. The core domain of SIRT1 may also refer to about amino acids 261 to 447 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 834 to 1394 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238; to about amino acids 242 to 493 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 777 to 1532 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238; or to about amino acids 254 to 495 of GenBank Accession No. NP_036370, which are encoded by nucleotides 813 to 1538 of GenBank Accession No. NM_012238. Whether a protein retains a biological function, e.g., deacetylation capabilities, can be determined according to methods known in the art.

In certain embodiments, methods for reducing, preventing or treating diseases or disorders using a sirtuin-modulating compound may also comprise decreasing the protein level of a sirtuin, such as human SIRT1, SIRT2 and/or SIRT3, or homologs thereof. Decreasing a sirtuin protein level can be achieved according to methods known in the art. For example, an siRNA, an antisense nucleic acid, or a ribozyme targeted to the sirtuin can be expressed in the cell. A dominant negative sirtuin mutant, e.g., a mutant that is not capable of deacetylating, may also be used. For example, mutant H363Y of SIRT1, described, e.g., in Luo et al. (2001) Cell 107:137 can be used. Alternatively, agents that inhibit transcription can be used.

Methods for modulating sirtuin protein levels also include methods for modulating the transcription of genes encoding sirtuins, methods for stabilizing/destabilizing the corresponding mRNAs, and other methods known in the art.

Aging/Stress

In one aspect, the invention provides a method extending the lifespan of a cell, extending the proliferative capacity of a cell, slowing aging of a cell, promoting the survival of a cell, delaying cellular senescence in a cell, mimicking the effects of calorie restriction, increasing the resistance of a cell to stress, or preventing apoptosis of a cell, by contacting the cell with a sirtuin-modulating compound of the invention that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. In an exemplary embodiment, the methods comprise contacting the cell with a sirtuin-modulating compound.

The methods described herein may be used to increase the amount of time that cells, particularly primary cells (i.e., cells obtained from an organism, e.g., a human), may be kept alive in a cell culture. Embryonic stem (ES) cells and pluripotent cells, and cells differentiated therefrom, may also be treated with a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein to keep the cells, or progeny thereof, in culture for longer periods of time. Such cells can also be used for transplantation into a subject, e.g., after ex vivo modification.

In one aspect, cells that are intended to be preserved for long periods of time may be treated with a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. The cells may be in suspension (e.g., blood cells, serum, biological growth media, etc.) or in tissues or organs. For example, blood collected from an individual for purposes of transfusion may be treated with a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein to preserve the blood cells for longer periods of time. Additionally, blood to be used for forensic purposes may also be preserved using a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. Other cells that may be treated to extend their lifespan or protect against apoptosis include cells for consumption, e.g., cells from non-human mammals (such as meat) or plant cells (such as vegetables).

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be applied during developmental and growth phases in mammals, plants, insects or microorganisms, in order to, e.g., alter, retard or accelerate the developmental and/or growth process.

In another aspect, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to treat cells useful for transplantation or cell therapy, including, for example, solid tissue grafts, organ transplants, cell suspensions, stem cells, bone marrow cells, etc. The cells or tissue may be an autograft, an allograft, a syngraft or a xenograft. The cells or tissue may be treated with the sirtuin-modulating compound prior to administration/implantation, concurrently with administration/implantation, and/or post administration/implantation into a subject. The cells or tissue may be treated prior to removal of the cells from the donor individual, ex vivo after removal of the cells or tissue from the donor individual, or post implantation into the recipient. For example, the donor or recipient individual may be treated systemically with a sirtuin-modulating compound or may have a subset of cells/tissue treated locally with a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. In certain embodiments, the cells or tissue (or donor/recipient individuals) may additionally be treated with another therapeutic agent useful for prolonging graft survival, such as, for example, an immunosuppressive agent, a cytokine, an angiogenic factor, etc.

In yet other embodiments, cells may be treated with a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein in vivo, e.g., to increase their lifespan or prevent apoptosis. For example, skin can be protected from aging (e.g., developing wrinkles, loss of elasticity, etc.) by treating skin or epithelial cells with a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. In an exemplary embodiment, skin is contacted with a pharmaceutical or cosmetic composition comprising a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. Exemplary skin afflictions or skin conditions that may be treated in accordance with the methods described herein include disorders or diseases associated with or caused by inflammation, sun damage or natural aging. For example, the compositions find utility in the prevention or treatment of contact dermatitis (including irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis), atopic dermatitis (also known as allergic eczema), actinic keratosis, keratinization disorders (including eczema), epidermolysis bullosa diseases (including pemphigus), exfoliative dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, erythemas (including erythema multiforme and erythema nodosum), damage caused by the sun or other light sources, discoid lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis, psoriasis, skin cancer and the effects of natural aging. In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for the treatment of wounds and/or burns to promote healing, including, for example, first-, second- or third-degree burns and/or thermal, chemical or electrical burns. The formulations may be administered topically, to the skin or mucosal tissue.

Topical formulations comprising one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used as preventive, e.g., chemopreventive, compositions. When used in a chemopreventive method, susceptible skin is treated prior to any visible condition in a particular individual.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds may be delivered locally or systemically to a subject. In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound is delivered locally to a tissue or organ of a subject by injection, topical formulation, etc.

In another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for treating or preventing a disease or condition induced or exacerbated by cellular senescence in a subject; methods for decreasing the rate of senescence of a subject, e.g., after onset of senescence; methods for extending the lifespan of a subject; methods for treating or preventing a disease or condition relating to lifespan; methods for treating or preventing a disease or condition relating to the proliferative capacity of cells; and methods for treating or preventing a disease or condition resulting from cell damage or death. In certain embodiments, the method does not act by decreasing the rate of occurrence of diseases that shorten the lifespan of a subject. In certain embodiments, a method does not act by reducing the lethality caused by a disease, such as cancer.

In yet another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered to a subject in order to generally increase the lifespan of its cells and to protect its cells against stress and/or against apoptosis. It is believed that treating a subject with a compound described herein is similar to subjecting the subject to hormesis, i.e., mild stress that is beneficial to organisms and may extend their lifespan.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered to a subject to prevent aging and aging-related consequences or diseases, such as stroke, heart disease, heart failure, arthritis, high blood pressure, and Alzheimer's disease. Other conditions that can be treated include ocular disorders, e.g., associated with the aging of the eye, such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can also be administered to subjects for treatment of diseases, e.g., chronic diseases, associated with cell death, in order to protect the cells from cell death. Exemplary diseases include those associated with neural cell death, neuronal dysfunction, or muscular cell death or dysfunction, such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy; AIDS; fulminant hepatitis; diseases linked to degeneration of the brain, such as Creutzfeld-Jakob disease, retinitis pigmentosa and cerebellar degeneration; myelodysplasia such as aplastic anemia; ischemic diseases such as myocardial infarction and stroke; hepatic diseases such as alcoholic hepatitis, hepatitis B and hepatitis C; joint-diseases such as osteoarthritis; atherosclerosis; alopecia; damage to the skin due to UV light; lichen planus; atrophy of the skin; cataract; and graft rejections. Cell death can also be caused by surgery, drug therapy, chemical exposure or radiation exposure.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can also be administered to a subject suffering from an acute disease, e.g., damage to an organ or tissue, e.g., a subject suffering from stroke or myocardial infarction or a subject suffering from a spinal cord injury. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used to repair an alcoholic's liver.

Cardiovascular Disease

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating and/or preventing a cardiovascular disease by administering to a subject in need thereof a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein.

Cardiovascular diseases that can be treated or prevented using the sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein include cardiomyopathy or myocarditis; such as idiopathic cardiomyopathy, metabolic cardiomyopathy, alcoholic cardiomyopathy, drug-induced cardiomyopathy, ischemic cardiomyopathy, and hypertensive cardiomyopathy. Also treatable or preventable using compounds and methods described herein are atheromatous disorders of the major blood vessels (macrovascular disease) such as the aorta, the coronary arteries, the carotid arteries, the cerebrovascular arteries, the renal arteries, the iliac arteries, the femoral arteries, and the popliteal arteries. Other vascular diseases that can be treated or prevented include those related to platelet aggregation, the retinal arterioles, the glomerular arterioles, the vasa nervorum, cardiac arterioles, and associated capillary beds of the eye, the kidney, the heart, and the central and peripheral nervous systems. The sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used for increasing HDL levels in plasma of an individual.

Yet other disorders that may be treated with sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein include restenosis, e.g., following coronary intervention, and disorders relating to an abnormal level of high density and low density cholesterol.

In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as part of a combination therapy with another cardiovascular agent. In certain embodiments, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as part of a combination therapy with an anti-arrhythmia agent. In another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as part of a combination therapy with another cardiovascular agent.

Cell Death/Cancer

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered to subjects who have recently received or are likely to receive a dose of radiation or toxin. In certain embodiments, the dose of radiation or toxin is received as part of a work-related or medical procedure, e.g., administered as a prophylactic measure. In another embodiment, the radiation or toxin exposure is received unintentionally. In such a case, the compound is preferably administered as soon as possible after the exposure to inhibit apoptosis and the subsequent development of acute radiation syndrome.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds may also be used for treating and/or preventing cancer. In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for treating and/or preventing cancer. Calorie restriction has been linked to a reduction in the incidence of age-related disorders including cancer. Accordingly, an increase in the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be useful for treating and/or preventing the incidence of age-related disorders, such as, for example, cancer. Exemplary cancers that may be treated using a sirtuin-modulating compound are those of the brain and kidney; hormone-dependent cancers including breast, prostate, testicular, and ovarian cancers; lymphomas, and leukemias. In cancers associated with solid tumors, a modulating compound may be administered directly into the tumor. Cancer of blood cells, e.g., leukemia, can be treated by administering a modulating compound into the blood stream or into the bone marrow. Benign cell growth, e.g., warts, can also be treated. Other diseases that can be treated include autoimmune diseases, e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, scleroderma, and arthritis, in which autoimmune cells should be removed. Viral infections such as herpes, HIV, adenovirus, and HTLV-1 associated malignant and benign disorders can also be treated by administration of sirtuin-modulating compound. Alternatively, cells can be obtained from a subject, treated ex vivo to remove certain undesirable cells, e.g., cancer cells, and administered back to the same or a different subject.

Chemotherapeutic agents may be co-administered with modulating compounds described herein as having anti-cancer activity, e.g., compounds that induce apoptosis, compounds that reduce lifespan or compounds that render cells sensitive to stress. Chemotherapeutic agents may be used by themselves with a sirtuin-modulating compound described herein as inducing cell death or reducing lifespan or increasing sensitivity to stress and/or in combination with other chemotherapeutics agents. In addition to conventional chemotherapeutics, the sirtuin-modulating compounds described herein may also be used with antisense RNA, RNAi or other polynucleotides to inhibit the expression of the cellular components that contribute to unwanted cellular proliferation.

Combination therapies comprising sirtuin-modulating compounds and a conventional chemotherapeutic agent may be advantageous over combination therapies known in the art because the combination allows the conventional chemotherapeutic agent to exert greater effect at lower dosage. In a preferred embodiment, the effective dose (ED₅₀) for a chemotherapeutic agent, or combination of conventional chemotherapeutic agents, when used in combination with a sirtuin-modulating compound is at least 2 fold less than the ED₅₀ for the chemotherapeutic agent alone, and even more preferably at 5 fold, 10 fold or even 25 fold less. Conversely, the therapeutic index (TI) for such chemotherapeutic agent or combination of such chemotherapeutic agent when used in combination with a sirtuin-modulating compound described herein can be at least 2 fold greater than the TI for conventional chemotherapeutic regimen alone, and even more preferably at 5 fold, 10 fold or even 25 fold greater.

Neuronal Diseases/Disorders

In certain aspects, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be used to treat patients suffering from neurodegenerative diseases, and traumatic or mechanical injury to the central nervous system (CNS), spinal cord or peripheral nervous system (PNS). Neurodegenerative disease typically involves reductions in the mass and volume of the human brain, which may be due to the atrophy and/or death of brain cells, which are far more profound than those in a healthy person that are attributable to aging. Neurodegenerative diseases can evolve gradually, after a long period of normal brain function, due to progressive degeneration (e.g., nerve cell dysfunction and death) of specific brain regions. Alternatively, neurodegenerative diseases can have a quick onset, such as those associated with trauma or toxins. The actual onset of brain degeneration may precede clinical expression by many years. Examples of neurodegenerative diseases include, but are not limited to, Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington's disease (HD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS; Lou Gehrig's disease), diffuse Lewy body disease, chorea-acanthocytosis, primary lateral sclerosis, ocular diseases (ocular neuritis), chemotherapy-induced neuropathies (e.g., from vincristine, paclitaxel, bortezomib), diabetes-induced neuropathies and Friedreich's ataxia. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be used to treat these disorders and others as described below.

AD is a CNS disorder that results in memory loss, unusual behavior, personality changes, and a decline in thinking abilities. These losses are related to the death of specific types of brain cells and the breakdown of connections and their supporting network (e.g. glial cells) between them. The earliest symptoms include loss of recent memory, faulty judgment, and changes in personality. PD is a CNS disorder that results in uncontrolled body movements, rigidity, tremor, and dyskinesia, and is associated with the death of brain cells in an area of the brain that produces dopamine. ALS (motor neuron disease) is a CNS disorder that attacks the motor neurons, components of the CNS that connect the brain to the skeletal muscles.

HD is another neurodegenerative disease that causes uncontrolled movements, loss of intellectual faculties, and emotional disturbance. Tay-Sachs disease and Sandhoff disease are glycolipid storage diseases where GM2 ganglioside and related glycolipids substrates for β-hexosaminidase accumulate in the nervous system and trigger acute neurodegeneration.

It is well-known that apoptosis plays a role in AIDS pathogenesis in the immune system. However, HIV-1 also induces neurological disease, which can be treated with sirtuin-modulating compounds of the invention.

Neuronal loss is also a salient feature of prion diseases, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease in human, BSE in cattle (mad cow disease), Scrapie Disease in sheep and goats, and feline spongiform encephalopathy (FSE) in cats. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be useful for treating or preventing neuronal loss due to these prior diseases.

In another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to treat or prevent any disease or disorder involving axonopathy. Distal axonopathy is a type of peripheral neuropathy that results from some metabolic or toxic derangement of peripheral nervous system (PNS) neurons. It is the most common response of nerves to metabolic or toxic disturbances, and as such may be caused by metabolic diseases such as diabetes, renal failure, deficiency syndromes such as malnutrition and alcoholism, or the effects of toxins or drugs. Those with distal axonopathies usually present with symmetrical glove-stocking sensori-motor disturbances. Deep tendon reflexes and autonomic nervous system (ANS) functions are also lost or diminished in affected areas.

Diabetic neuropathies are neuropathic disorders that are associated with diabetes mellitus. Relatively common conditions which may be associated with diabetic neuropathy include third nerve palsy; mononeuropathy; mononeuritis multiplex; diabetic amyotrophy; a painful polyneuropathy; autonomic neuropathy; and thoracoabdominal neuropathy.

Peripheral neuropathy is the medical term for damage to nerves of the peripheral nervous system, which may be caused either by diseases of the nerve or from the side-effects of systemic illness. Maj or causes of peripheral neuropathy include seizures, nutritional deficiencies, and HIV, though diabetes is the most likely cause.

In an exemplary embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to treat or prevent multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing MS and monosymptomatic MS, and other demyelinating conditions, such as, for example, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), or symptoms associated therewith.

In yet another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to treat trauma to the nerves, including, trauma due to disease, injury (including surgical intervention), or environmental trauma (e.g., neurotoxins, alcoholism, etc.).

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be useful to prevent, treat, and alleviate symptoms of various PNS disorders. The term “peripheral neuropathy” encompasses a wide range of disorders in which the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord—peripheral nerves—have been damaged. Peripheral neuropathy may also be referred to as peripheral neuritis, or if many nerves are involved, the terms polyneuropathy or polyneuritis may be used.

PNS diseases treatable with sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein include: diabetes, leprosy, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, Guillain-Barré syndrome and Brachial Plexus Neuropathies (diseases of the cervical and first thoracic roots, nerve trunks, cords, and peripheral nerve components of the brachial plexus.

In another embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound may be used to treat or prevent a polyglutamine disease. Exemplary polyglutamine diseases include Spinobulbar muscular atrophy (Kennedy disease), Huntington's Disease (HD), Dentatorubral-pallidoluysian atrophy (Haw River syndrome), Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1, Spinocerebellar ataxia type 2, Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (Machado-Joseph disease), Spinocerebellar ataxia type 6, Spinocerebellar ataxia type 7, and Spinocerebellar ataxia type 17.

In certain embodiments, the invention provides a method to treat a central nervous system cell to prevent damage in response to a decrease in blood flow to the cell. Typically the severity of damage that may be prevented will depend in large part on the degree of reduction in blood flow to the cell and the duration of the reduction. In certain embodiments, apoptotic or necrotic cell death may be prevented. In still a further embodiment, ischemic-mediated damage, such as cytotoxic edema or central nervous system tissue anoxemia, may be prevented. In each embodiment, the central nervous system cell may be a spinal cell or a brain cell.

Another aspect encompasses administrating a sirtuin-modulating compound to a subject to treat a central nervous system ischemic condition. A number of central nervous system ischemic conditions may be treated by the sirtuin-modulating compounds described herein. In certain embodiments, the ischemic condition is a stroke that results in any type of ischemic central nervous system damage, such as apoptotic or necrotic cell death, cytotoxic edema or central nervous system tissue anoxia. The stroke may impact any area of the brain or be caused by any etiology commonly known to result in the occurrence of a stroke. In one alternative of this embodiment, the stroke is a brain stem stroke. In another alternative of this embodiment, the stroke is a cerebellar stroke. In still another embodiment, the stroke is an embolic stroke. In yet another alternative, the stroke may be a hemorrhagic stroke. In a further embodiment, the stroke is a thrombotic stroke.

In yet another aspect, a sirtuin-modulating compound may be administered to reduce infarct size of the ischemic core following a central nervous system ischemic condition. Moreover, a sirtuin-modulating compound may also be beneficially administered to reduce the size of the ischemic penumbra or transitional zone following a central nervous system ischemic condition.

In certain embodiments, a combination drug regimen may include drugs or compounds for the treatment or prevention of neurodegenerative disorders or secondary conditions associated with these conditions. Thus, a combination drug regimen may include one or more sirtuin activators and one or more anti-neurodegeneration agents.

Blood Coagulation Disorders

In other aspects, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be used to treat or prevent blood coagulation disorders (or hemostatic disorders). As used interchangeably herein, the terms “hemostasis”, “blood coagulation,” and “blood clotting” refer to the control of bleeding, including the physiological properties of vasoconstriction and coagulation. Blood coagulation assists in maintaining the integrity of mammalian circulation after injury, inflammation, disease, congenital defect, dysfunction or other disruption. Further, the formation of blood clots does not only limit bleeding in case of an injury (hemostasis), but may lead to serious organ damage and death in the context of atherosclerotic diseases by occlusion of an important artery or vein. Thrombosis is thus blood clot formation at the wrong time and place.

Accordingly, the present invention provides anticoagulation and antithrombotic treatments aiming at inhibiting the formation of blood clots in order to prevent or treat blood coagulation disorders, such as myocardial infarction, stroke, loss of a limb by peripheral artery disease or pulmonary embolism.

As used interchangeably herein, “modulating or modulation of hemostasis” and “regulating or regulation of hemostasis” includes the induction (e.g., stimulation or increase) of hemostasis, as well as the inhibition (e.g., reduction or decrease) of hemostasis.

In one aspect, the invention provides a method for reducing or inhibiting hemostasis in a subject by administering a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. The compositions and methods disclosed herein are useful for the treatment or prevention of thrombotic disorders. As used herein, the term “thrombotic disorder” includes any disorder or condition characterized by excessive or unwanted coagulation or hemostatic activity, or a hypercoagulable state. Thrombotic disorders include diseases or disorders involving platelet adhesion and thrombus formation, and may manifest as an increased propensity to form thromboses, e.g., an increased number of thromboses, thrombosis at an early age, a familial tendency towards thrombosis, and thrombosis at unusual sites.

In another embodiment, a combination drug regimen may include drugs or compounds for the treatment or prevention of blood coagulation disorders or secondary conditions associated with these conditions. Thus, a combination drug regimen may include one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein and one or more anti-coagulation or anti-thrombosis agents.

Weight Control

In another aspect, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for treating or preventing weight gain or obesity in a subject. For example, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used, for example, to treat or prevent hereditary obesity, dietary obesity, hormone related obesity, obesity related to the administration of medication, to reduce the weight of a subject, or to reduce or prevent weight gain in a subject. A subject in need of such a treatment may be a subject who is obese, likely to become obese, overweight, or likely to become overweight. Subjects who are likely to become obese or overweight can be identified, for example, based on family history, genetics, diet, activity level, medication intake, or various combinations thereof.

In yet other embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered to subjects suffering from a variety of other diseases and conditions that may be treated or prevented by promoting weight loss in the subject. Such diseases include, for example, high blood pressure, hypertension, high blood cholesterol, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, hyperinsulinemia, coronary heart disease, angina pectoris, congestive heart failure, stroke, gallstones, cholecystitis and cholelithiasis, gout, osteoarthritis, obstructive sleep apnea and respiratory problems, some types of cancer (such as endometrial, breast, prostate, and colon), complications of pregnancy, poor female reproductive health (such as menstrual irregularities, infertility, irregular ovulation), bladder control problems (such as stress incontinence); uric acid nephrolithiasis; psychological disorders (such as depression, eating disorders, distorted body image, and low self-esteem). Finally, patients with AIDS can develop lipodystrophy or insulin resistance in response to combination therapies for AIDS.

In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for inhibiting adipogenesis or fat cell differentiation, whether in vitro or in vivo. Such methods may be used for treating or preventing obesity.

In other embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for reducing appetite and/or increasing satiety, thereby causing weight loss or avoidance of weight gain. A subject in need of such a treatment may be a subject who is overweight, obese or a subject likely to become overweight or obese. The method may comprise administering daily or, every other day, or once a week, a dose, e.g., in the form of a pill, to a subject. The dose may be an “appetite reducing dose.”

In an exemplary embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as a combination therapy for treating or preventing weight gain or obesity. For example, one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered in combination with one or more anti-obesity agents.

In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered to reduce drug-induced weight gain. For example, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as a combination therapy with medications that may stimulate appetite or cause weight gain, in particular, weight gain due to factors other than water retention.

Metabolic Disorders/Diabetes

In another aspect, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for treating or preventing a metabolic disorder, such as insulin-resistance, a pre-diabetic state, type II diabetes, and/or complications thereof. Administration of a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may increase insulin sensitivity and/or decrease insulin levels in a subject. A subject in need of such a treatment may be a subject who has insulin resistance or other precursor symptom of type II diabetes, who has type II diabetes, or who is likely to develop any of these conditions. For example, the subject may be a subject having insulin resistance, e.g., having high circulating levels of insulin and/or associated conditions, such as hyperlipidemia, dyslipogenesis, hypercholesterolemia, impaired glucose tolerance, high blood glucose sugar level, other manifestations of syndrome X, hypertension, atherosclerosis and lipodystrophy.

In an exemplary embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as a combination therapy for treating or preventing a metabolic disorder. For example, one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered in combination with one or more anti-diabetic agents.

Inflammatory Diseases

In other aspects, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be used to treat or prevent a disease or disorder associated with inflammation. Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered prior to the onset of, at, or after the initiation of inflammation. When used prophylactically, the compounds are preferably provided in advance of any inflammatory response or symptom. Administration of the compounds may prevent or attenuate inflammatory responses or symptoms.

In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to treat or prevent allergies and respiratory conditions, including asthma, bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis, allergic rhinitis, oxygen toxicity, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and any chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The compounds may be used to treat chronic hepatitis infection, including hepatitis B and hepatitis C.

Additionally, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to treat autoimmune diseases, and/or inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases, such as arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, as well as organ-tissue autoimmune diseases (e.g., Raynaud's syndrome), ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, oral mucositis, scleroderma, myasthenia gravis, transplant rejection, endotoxin shock, sepsis, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, multiple sclerosis, autoimmune thyroiditis, uveitis, systemic lupus erythematosis, Addison's disease, autoimmune polyglandular disease (also known as autoimmune polyglandular syndrome), and Grave's disease.

In certain embodiments, one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be taken alone or in combination with other compounds useful for treating or preventing inflammation.

Flushing

In another aspect, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for reducing the incidence or severity of flushing and/or hot flashes which are symptoms of a disorder. For instance, the subject method includes the use of sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein, alone or in combination with other agents, for reducing incidence or severity of flushing and/or hot flashes in cancer patients. In other embodiments, the method provides for the use of sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein to reduce the incidence or severity of flushing and/or hot flashes in menopausal and post-menopausal woman.

In another aspect, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used as a therapy for reducing the incidence or severity of flushing and/or hot flashes which are side-effects of another drug therapy, e.g., drug-induced flushing. In certain embodiments, a method for treating and/or preventing drug-induced flushing comprises administering to a patient in need thereof a formulation comprising at least one flushing inducing compound and at least one sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein. In other embodiments, a method for treating drug induced flushing comprises separately administering one or more compounds that induce flushing and one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds, e.g., wherein the sirtuin-modulating compound and flushing inducing agent have not been formulated in the same compositions. When using separate formulations, the sirtuin-modulating compound may be administered (1) at the same as administration of the flushing inducing agent, (2) intermittently with the flushing inducing agent, (3) staggered relative to administration of the flushing inducing agent, (4) prior to administration of the flushing inducing agent, (5) subsequent to administration of the flushing inducing agent, and (6) various combination thereof. Exemplary flushing inducing agents include, for example, niacin, raloxifene, antidepressants, anti-psychotics, chemotherapeutics, calcium channel blockers, and antibiotics.

In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to reduce flushing side effects of a vasodilator or an antilipemic agent (including anticholesteremic agents and lipotropic agents). In an exemplary embodiment, a sirtuin-modulating compound that increases the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to reduce flushing associated with the administration of niacin.

In another embodiment, the invention provides a method for treating and/or preventing hyperlipidemia with reduced flushing side effects. In another representative embodiment, the method involves the use of sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein to reduce flushing side effects of raloxifene. In another representative embodiment, the method involves the use of sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein to reduce flushing side effects of antidepressants or anti-psychotic agent. For instance, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be used in conjunction (administered separately or together) with a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or a 5HT2 receptor antagonist.

In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used as part of a treatment with a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) to reduce flushing. In still another representative embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to reduce flushing side effects of chemotherapeutic agents, such as cyclophosphamide and tamoxifen.

In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to reduce flushing side effects of calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine.

In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used to reduce flushing side effects of antibiotics. For example, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be used in combination with levofloxacin.

Ocular Disorders

One aspect of the present invention is a method for inhibiting, reducing or otherwise treating vision impairment by administering to a patient a therapeutic dosage of sirtuin modulator selected from a compound disclosed herein, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt, prodrug or a metabolic derivative thereof.

In certain aspects of the invention, the vision impairment is caused by damage to the optic nerve or central nervous system. In particular embodiments, optic nerve damage is caused by high intraocular pressure, such as that created by glaucoma. In other particular embodiments, optic nerve damage is caused by swelling of the nerve, which is often associated with an infection or an immune (e.g., autoimmune) response such as in optic neuritis.

In certain aspects of the invention, the vision impairment is caused by retinal damage. In particular embodiments, retinal damage is caused by disturbances in blood flow to the eye (e.g., arteriosclerosis, vasculitis). In particular embodiments, retinal damage is caused by disruption of the macula (e.g., exudative or non-exudative macular degeneration).

Exemplary retinal diseases include Exudative Age Related Macular Degeneration, Nonexudative Age Related Macular Degeneration, Retinal Electronic Prosthesis and RPE Transplantation Age Related Macular Degeneration, Acute Multifocal Placoid Pigment Epitheliopathy, Acute Retinal Necrosis, Best Disease, Branch Retinal Artery Occlusion, Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion, Cancer Associated and Related Autoimmune Retinopathies, Central Retinal Artery Occlusion, Central Retinal Vein Occlusion, Central Serous Chorioretinopathy, Eales Disease, Epimacular Membrane, Lattice Degeneration, Macroaneurysm, Diabetic Macular Edema, Irvine-Gass Macular Edema, Macular Hole, Subretinal Neovascular Membranes, Diffuse Unilateral Subacute Neuroretinitis, Nonpseudophakic Cystoid Macular Edema, Presumed Ocular Histoplasmosis Syndrome, Exudative Retinal Detachment, Postoperative Retinal Detachment, Proliferative Retinal Detachment, Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment, Tractional Retinal Detachment, Retinitis Pigmentosa, CMV Retinitis, Retinoblastoma, Retinopathy of Prematurity, Birdshot Retinopathy, Background Diabetic Retinopathy, Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy, Hemoglobinopathies Retinopathy, Purtscher Retinopathy, Valsalva Retinopathy, Juvenile Retinoschisis, Senile Retinoschisis, Terson Syndrome and White Dot Syndromes.

Other exemplary diseases include ocular bacterial infections (e.g. conjunctivitis, keratitis, tuberculosis, syphilis, gonorrhea), viral infections (e.g., Ocular Herpes Simplex Virus, Varicella Zoster Virus, Cytomegalovirus retinitis, Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)) as well as progressive outer retinal necrosis secondary to HIV or other HIV-associated and other immunodeficiency-associated ocular diseases. In addition, ocular diseases include fungal infections (e.g., Candida choroiditis, histoplasmosis), protozoal infections (e.g., toxoplasmosis) and others such as ocular toxocariasis and sarcoidosis.

One aspect of the invention is a method for inhibiting, reducing or treating vision impairment in a subject undergoing treatment with a chemotherapeutic drug (e.g., a neurotoxic drug, or a drug that raises intraocular pressure, such as a steroid), by administering to the subject in need of such treatment a therapeutic dosage of a sirtuin modulator disclosed herein.

Another aspect of the invention is a method for inhibiting, reducing or treating vision impairment in a subject undergoing surgery, including ocular or other surgeries performed in the prone position such as spinal cord surgery, by administering to the subject in need of such treatment a therapeutic dosage of a sirtuin modulator disclosed herein. Ocular surgeries include cataract, iridotomy and lens replacements.

Another aspect of the invention is the treatment, including inhibition and prophylactic treatment, of age related ocular diseases include cataracts, dry eye, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal damage and the like, by administering to the subject in need of such treatment a therapeutic dosage of a sirtuin modulator disclosed herein.

Another aspect of the invention is the prevention or treatment of damage to the eye caused by stress, chemical insult or radiation, by administering to the subject in need of such treatment a therapeutic dosage of a sirtuin modulator disclosed herein. Radiation or electromagnetic damage to the eye can include that caused by CRT's or exposure to sunlight or UV.

In certain embodiments, a combination drug regimen may include drugs or compounds for the treatment or prevention of ocular disorders or secondary conditions associated with these conditions. Thus, a combination drug regimen may include one or more sirtuin activators and one or more therapeutic agents for the treatment of an ocular disorder.

In certain embodiments, a sirtuin modulator can be administered in conjunction with a therapy for reducing intraocular pressure. In another embodiment, a sirtuin modulator can be administered in conjunction with a therapy for treating and/or preventing glaucoma. In yet another embodiment, a sirtuin modulator can be administered in conjunction with a therapy for treating and/or preventing optic neuritis. In certain embodiments, a sirtuin modulator can be administered in conjunction with a therapy for treating and/or preventing CMV Retinopathy. In another embodiment, a sirtuin modulator can be administered in conjunction with a therapy for treating and/or preventing multiple sclerosis.

Mitochondrial-Associated Diseases and Disorders

In certain embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity. The methods involve administering to a subject in need thereof a therapeutically effective amount of a sirtuin-modulating compound. Increased mitochondrial activity refers to increasing activity of the mitochondria while maintaining the overall numbers of mitochondria (e.g., mitochondrial mass), increasing the numbers of mitochondria thereby increasing mitochondrial activity (e.g., by stimulating mitochondrial biogenesis), or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, diseases and disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity include diseases or disorders associated with mitochondrial dysfunction.

In certain embodiments, methods for treating diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity may comprise identifying a subject suffering from a mitochondrial dysfunction. Methods for diagnosing a mitochondrial dysfunction may involve molecular genetics, pathologic and/or biochemical analyses. Diseases and disorders associated with mitochondrial dysfunction include diseases and disorders in which deficits in mitochondrial respiratory chain activity contribute to the development of pathophysiology of such diseases or disorders in a mammal. Diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity generally include for example, diseases in which free radical mediated oxidative injury leads to tissue degeneration, diseases in which cells inappropriately undergo apoptosis, and diseases in which cells fail to undergo apoptosis.

In certain embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating a disease or disorder that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity that involves administering to a subject in need thereof one or more sirtuin-modulating compounds in combination with another therapeutic agent such as, for example, an agent useful for treating mitochondrial dysfunction or an agent useful for reducing a symptom associated with a disease or disorder involving mitochondrial dysfunction.

In exemplary embodiments, the invention provides methods for treating diseases or disorders that would benefit from increased mitochondrial activity by administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a sirtuin-modulating compound. Exemplary diseases or disorders include, for example, neuromuscular disorders (e.g., Friedreich's Ataxia, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, etc.), disorders of neuronal instability (e.g., seizure disorders, migraine, etc.), developmental delay, neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, etc.), ischemia, renal tubular acidosis, age-related neurodegeneration and cognitive decline, chemotherapy fatigue, age-related or chemotherapy-induced menopause or irregularities of menstrual cycling or ovulation, mitochondrial myopathies, mitochondrial damage (e.g., calcium accumulation, excitotoxicity, nitric oxide exposure, hypoxia, etc.), and mitochondrial deregulation.

Muscular dystrophy refers to a family of diseases involving deterioration of neuromuscular structure and function, often resulting in atrophy of skeletal muscle and myocardial dysfunction, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy. In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds may be used for reducing the rate of decline in muscular functional capacities and for improving muscular functional status in patients with muscular dystrophy.

In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds may be useful for treatment mitochondrial myopathies. Mitochondrial myopathies range from mild, slowly progressive weakness of the extraocular muscles to severe, fatal infantile myopathies and multisystem encephalomyopathies. Some syndromes have been defined, with some overlap between them. Established syndromes affecting muscle include progressive external ophthalmoplegia, the Kearns-Sayre syndrome (with ophthalmoplegia, pigmentary retinopathy, cardiac conduction defects, cerebellar ataxia, and sensorineural deafness), the MELAS syndrome (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes), the MERFF syndrome (myoclonic epilepsy and ragged red fibers), limb-girdle distribution weakness, and infantile myopathy (benign or severe and fatal).

In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds may be useful for treating patients suffering from toxic damage to mitochondria, such as, toxic damage due to calcium accumulation, excitotoxicity, nitric oxide exposure, drug induced toxic damage, or hypoxia.

In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds may be useful for treating diseases or disorders associated with mitochondrial deregulation.

Muscle Performance

In other embodiments, the invention provides methods for enhancing muscle performance by administering a therapeutically effective amount of a sirtuin-modulating compound. For example, sirtuin-modulating compounds may be useful for improving physical endurance (e.g., ability to perform a physical task such as exercise, physical labor, sports activities, etc.), inhibiting or retarding physical fatigues, enhancing blood oxygen levels, enhancing energy in healthy individuals, enhance working capacity and endurance, reducing muscle fatigue, reducing stress, enhancing cardiac and cardiovascular function, improving sexual ability, increasing muscle ATP levels, and/or reducing lactic acid in blood. In certain embodiments, the methods involve administering an amount of a sirtuin-modulating compound that increase mitochondrial activity, increase mitochondrial biogenesis, and/or increase mitochondrial mass.

Sports performance refers to the ability of the athlete's muscles to perform when participating in sports activities. Enhanced sports performance, strength, speed and endurance are measured by an increase in muscular contraction strength, increase in amplitude of muscle contraction, shortening of muscle reaction time between stimulation and contraction. Athlete refers to an individual who participates in sports at any level and who seeks to achieve an improved level of strength, speed and endurance in their performance, such as, for example, body builders, bicyclists, long distance runners, short distance runners, etc. Enhanced sports performance in manifested by the ability to overcome muscle fatigue, ability to maintain activity for longer periods of time, and have a more effective workout.

In the arena of athlete muscle performance, it is desirable to create conditions that permit competition or training at higher levels of resistance for a prolonged period of time.

It is contemplated that the methods of the present invention will also be effective in the treatment of muscle related pathological conditions, including acute sarcopenia, for example, muscle atrophy and/or cachexia associated with burns, bed rest, limb immobilization, or major thoracic, abdominal, and/or orthopedic surgery.

In certain embodiments, the invention provides novel dietary compositions comprising sirtuin modulators, a method for their preparation, and a method of using the compositions for improvement of sports performance. Accordingly, provided are therapeutic compositions, foods and beverages that have actions of improving physical endurance and/or inhibiting physical fatigues for those people involved in broadly-defined exercises including sports requiring endurance and labors requiring repeated muscle exertions. Such dietary compositions may additional comprise electrolytes, caffeine, vitamins, carbohydrates, etc.

Other Uses

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for treating or preventing viral infections (such as infections by influenza, herpes or papilloma virus) or as antifungal agents. In certain embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as part of a combination drug therapy with another therapeutic agent for the treatment of viral diseases. In another embodiment, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be administered as part of a combination drug therapy with another anti-fungal agent.

Subjects that may be treated as described herein include eukaryotes, such as mammals, e.g., humans, ovines, bovines, equines, porcines, canines, felines, non-human primate, mice, and rats. Cells that may be treated include eukaryotic cells, e.g., from a subject described above, or plant cells, yeast cells and prokaryotic cells, e.g., bacterial cells. For example, modulating compounds may be administered to farm animals to improve their ability to withstand farming conditions longer.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used to increase lifespan, stress resistance, and resistance to apoptosis in plants. In certain embodiments, a compound is applied to plants, e.g., on a periodic basis, or to fungi. In another embodiment, plants are genetically modified to produce a compound. In another embodiment, plants and fruits are treated with a compound prior to picking and shipping to increase resistance to damage during shipping. Plant seeds may also be contacted with compounds described herein, e.g., to preserve them.

In other embodiments, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may be used for modulating lifespan in yeast cells. Situations in which it may be desirable to extend the lifespan of yeast cells include any process in which yeast is used, e.g., the making of beer, yogurt, and bakery items, e.g., bread. Use of yeast having an extended lifespan can result in using less yeast or in having the yeast be active for longer periods of time. Yeast or other mammalian cells used for recombinantly producing proteins may also be treated as described herein.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used to increase lifespan, stress resistance and resistance to apoptosis in insects. In this embodiment, compounds would be applied to useful insects, e.g., bees and other insects that are involved in pollination of plants. In a specific embodiment, a compound would be applied to bees involved in the production of honey. Generally, the methods described herein may be applied to any organism, e.g., eukaryote, which may have commercial importance. For example, they can be applied to fish (aquaculture) and birds (e.g., chicken and fowl).

Higher doses of sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein may also be used as a pesticide by interfering with the regulation of silenced genes and the regulation of apoptosis during development. In this embodiment, a compound may be applied to plants using a method known in the art that ensures the compound is bio-available to insect larvae, and not to plants.

At least in view of the link between reproduction and longevity, sirtuin-modulating compounds that increase the level and/or activity of a sirtuin protein can be applied to affect the reproduction of organisms such as insects, animals and microorganisms.

4. Assays

Yet other methods contemplated herein include screening methods for identifying compounds or agents that modulate sirtuins. An agent may be a nucleic acid, such as an aptamer. Assays may be conducted in a cell based or cell free format. For example, an assay may comprise incubating (or contacting) a sirtuin with a test agent under conditions in which a sirtuin can be modulated by an agent known to modulate the sirtuin, and monitoring or determining the level of modulation of the sirtuin in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent. The level of modulation of a sirtuin can be determined by determining its ability to deacetylate a substrate. Exemplary substrates are acetylated peptides which can be obtained from BIOMOL (Plymouth Meeting, Pa.). Preferred substrates include peptides of p53, such as those comprising an acetylated K382. A particularly preferred substrate is the Fluor de Lys-SIRT1 (BIOMOL), i.e., the acetylated peptide Arg-His-Lys-Lys. Other substrates are peptides from human histones H3 and H4 or an acetylated amino acid. Substrates may be fluorogenic. The sirtuin may be SIRT1, Sir2, SIRT3, or a portion thereof. For example, recombinant SIRT1 can be obtained from BIOMOL. The reaction may be conducted for about 30 minutes and stopped, e.g., with nicotinamide. The HDAC fluorescent activity assay/drug discovery kit (AK-500, BIOMOL Research Laboratories) may be used to determine the level of acetylation. Similar assays are described in Bitterman et al. (2002) J. Biol. Chem. 277:45099. The level of modulation of the sirtuin in an assay may be compared to the level of modulation of the sirtuin in the presence of one or more (separately or simultaneously) compounds described herein, which may serve as positive or negative controls. Sirtuins for use in the assays may be full length sirtuin proteins or portions thereof. Since it has been shown herein that activating compounds appear to interact with the N-terminus of SIRT1, proteins for use in the assays include N-terminal portions of sirtuins, e.g., about amino acids 1-176 or 1-255 of SIRT1; about amino acids 1-174 or 1-252 of Sir2.

In certain embodiments, a screening assay comprises (i) contacting a sirtuin with a test agent and an acetylated substrate under conditions appropriate for the sirtuin to deacetylate the substrate in the absence of the test agent; and (ii) determining the level of acetylation of the substrate, wherein a lower level of acetylation of the substrate in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent indicates that the test agent stimulates deacetylation by the sirtuin, whereas a higher level of acetylation of the substrate in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent indicates that the test agent inhibits deacetylation by the sirtuin.

In another embodiment, the screening assay may detect the formation of a 2′/3′-O-acetyl-ADP-ribose product of sirtuin-mediated NAD-dependent deacetylation. This O-acetyl-ADP-ribose product is formed in equimolar quantities with the deacetylated peptide product of the sirtuin deacetylation reaction. Accordingly, the screening assay may include (i) contacting a sirtuin with a test agent and an acetylated substrate under conditions appropriate for the sirtuin to deacetylate the substrate in the absence of the test agent; and (ii) determining the amount of O-acetyl-ADP-ribose formation, wherein an increase in O-acetyl-ADP-ribose formation in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent indicates that the test agent stimulates deacetylation by the sirtuin, while a decrease in O-acetyl-ADP-ribose formation in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent indicates that the test agent inhibits deacetylation by the sirtuin.

Methods for identifying an agent that modulates, e.g., stimulates, sirtuins in vivo may comprise (i) contacting a cell with a test agent and a substrate that is capable of entering a cell in the presence of an inhibitor of class I and class II HDACs under conditions appropriate for the sirtuin to deacetylate the substrate in the absence of the test agent; and (ii) determining the level of acetylation of the substrate, wherein a lower level of acetylation of the substrate in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent indicates that the test agent stimulates deacetylation by the sirtuin, whereas a higher level of acetylation of the substrate in the presence of the test agent relative to the absence of the test agent indicates that the test agent inhibits deacetylation by the sirtuin. A preferred substrate is an acetylated peptide, which is also preferably fluorogenic, as further described herein. The method may further comprise lysing the cells to determine the level of acetylation of the substrate. Substrates may be added to cells at a concentration ranging from about 1 μM to about 10 mM, preferably from about 10 μM to 1 mM, even more preferably from about 100 μM to 1 mM, such as about 200 μM. A preferred substrate is an acetylated lysine, e.g., ε-acetyl lysine (Fluor de Lys, FdL) or Fluor de Lys-SIRT1. A preferred inhibitor of class I and class II HDACs is trichostatin A (TSA), which may be used at concentrations ranging from about 0.01 to 100 μM, preferably from about 0.1 to 10 μM, such as 1 μM. Incubation of cells with the test compound and the substrate may be conducted for about 10 minutes to 5 hours, preferably for about 1-3 hours. Since TSA inhibits all class I and class II HDACs, and that certain substrates, e.g., Fluor de Lys, is a poor substrate for SIRT2 and even less a substrate for SIRT3-7, such an assay may be used to identify modulators of SIRT1 in vivo.

5. Pharmaceutical Compositions

The compounds described herein may be formulated in a conventional manner using one or more physiologically or pharmaceutically acceptable carriers or excipients. For example, compounds and their pharmaceutically acceptable salts and solvates may be formulated for administration by, for example, injection (e.g. SubQ, IM, IP), inhalation or insufflation (either through the mouth or the nose) or oral, buccal, sublingual, transdermal, nasal, parenteral or rectal administration. In certain embodiments, a compound may be administered locally, at the site where the target cells are present, i.e., in a specific tissue, organ, or fluid (e.g., blood, cerebrospinal fluid, etc.).

The compounds can be formulated for a variety of modes of administration, including systemic and topical or localized administration. Techniques and formulations generally may be found in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Meade Publishing Co., Easton, Pa. For parenteral administration, injection is preferred, including intramuscular, intravenous, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous. For injection, the compounds can be formulated in liquid solutions, preferably in physiologically compatible buffers such as Hank's solution or Ringer's solution. In addition, the compounds may be formulated in solid form and redissolved or suspended immediately prior to use. Lyophilized forms are also included.

For oral administration, the pharmaceutical compositions may take the form of, for example, tablets, lozenges, or capsules prepared by conventional means with pharmaceutically acceptable excipients such as binding agents (e.g., pregelatinized maize starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose); fillers (e.g., lactose, microcrystalline cellulose or calcium hydrogen phosphate); lubricants (e.g., magnesium stearate, talc or silica); disintegrants (e.g., potato starch or sodium starch glycolate); or wetting agents (e.g., sodium lauryl sulphate). The tablets may be coated by methods well known in the art. Liquid preparations for oral administration may take the form of, for example, solutions, syrups or suspensions, or they may be presented as a dry product for constitution with water or other suitable vehicle before use. Such liquid preparations may be prepared by conventional means with pharmaceutically acceptable additives such as suspending agents (e.g., sorbitol syrup, cellulose derivatives or hydrogenated edible fats); emulsifying agents (e.g., lecithin or acacia); non-aqueous vehicles (e.g., almond oil, oily esters, ethyl alcohol or fractionated vegetable oils); and preservatives (e.g., methyl or propyl-p-hydroxybenzoates or sorbic acid). The preparations may also contain buffer salts, flavoring, coloring and sweetening agents as appropriate. Preparations for oral administration may be suitably formulated to give controlled release of the active compound.

For administration by inhalation (e.g., pulmonary delivery), the compounds may be conveniently delivered in the form of an aerosol spray presentation from pressurized packs or a nebulizer, with the use of a suitable propellant, e.g., dichlorodifluoromethane, trichlorofluoromethane, dichlorotetrafluoroethane, carbon dioxide or other suitable gas. In the case of a pressurized aerosol the dosage unit may be determined by providing a valve to deliver a metered amount. Capsules and cartridges of, e.g., gelatin, for use in an inhaler or insufflator may be formulated containing a powder mix of the compound and a suitable powder base such as lactose or starch.

The compounds may be formulated for parenteral administration by injection, e.g., by bolus injection or continuous infusion. Formulations for injection may be presented in unit dosage form, e.g., in ampoules or in multi-dose containers, with an added preservative. The compositions may take such forms as suspensions, solutions or emulsions in oily or aqueous vehicles, and may contain formulatory agents such as suspending, stabilizing and/or dispersing agents. Alternatively, the active ingredient may be in powder form for constitution with a suitable vehicle, e.g., sterile pyrogen-free water, before use.

The compounds may also be formulated in rectal compositions such as suppositories or retention enemas, e.g., containing conventional suppository bases such as cocoa butter or other glycerides.

In addition to the formulations described previously, compounds may also be formulated as a depot preparation. Such long acting formulations may be administered by implantation (for example subcutaneously or intramuscularly) or by intramuscular injection. Thus, for example, compounds may be formulated with suitable polymeric or hydrophobic materials (for example as an emulsion in an acceptable oil) or ion exchange resins, or as sparingly soluble derivatives, for example, as a sparingly soluble salt. Controlled release formula also includes patches.

In certain embodiments, the compounds described herein can be formulated for delivery to the central nervous system (CNS) (reviewed in Begley, Pharmacology & Therapeutics 104: 29-45 (2004)). Conventional approaches for drug delivery to the CNS include: neurosurgical strategies (e.g., intracerebral injection or intracerebroventricular infusion); molecular manipulation of the agent (e.g., production of a chimeric fusion protein that comprises a transport peptide that has an affinity for an endothelial cell surface molecule in combination with an agent that is itself incapable of crossing the BBB) in an attempt to exploit one of the endogenous transport pathways of the BBB; pharmacological strategies designed to increase the lipid solubility of an agent (e.g., conjugation of water-soluble agents to lipid or cholesterol carriers); and the transitory disruption of the integrity of the BBB by hyperosmotic disruption (resulting from the infusion of a mannitol solution into the carotid artery or the use of a biologically active agent such as an angiotensin peptide).

Liposomes are a further drug delivery system which is easily injectable. Accordingly, in the method of invention the active compounds can also be administered in the form of a liposome delivery system. Liposomes are well known by those skilled in the art. Liposomes can be formed from a variety of phospholipids, such as cholesterol, stearylamine of phosphatidylcholines. Liposomes usable for the method of invention encompass all types of liposomes including, but not limited to, small unilamellar vesicles, large unilamellar vesicles and multilamellar vesicles.

Another way to produce a formulation, particularly a solution, of a compound described herein, is through the use of cyclodextrin. By cyclodextrin is meant α-, β-, or γ-cyclodextrin. Cyclodextrins are described in detail in Pitha et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,727,064, which is incorporated herein by reference. Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligomers of glucose; these compounds form inclusion complexes with any drug whose molecule can fit into the lipophile-seeking cavities of the cyclodextrin molecule.

Rapidly disintegrating or dissolving dosage forms are useful for the rapid absorption, particularly buccal and sublingual absorption, of pharmaceutically active agents. Fast melt dosage forms are beneficial to patients, such as aged and pediatric patients, who have difficulty in swallowing typical solid dosage forms, such as caplets and tablets. Additionally, fast melt dosage forms circumvent drawbacks associated with, for example, chewable dosage forms, wherein the length of time an active agent remains in a patient's mouth plays an important role in determining the amount of taste masking and the extent to which a patient may object to throat grittiness of the active agent.

Pharmaceutical compositions (including cosmetic preparations) may comprise from about 0.00001 to 100% such as from 0.001 to 10% or from 0.1% to 5% by weight of one or more compounds described herein. In other embodiments, the pharmaceutical composition comprises: (i) 0.05 to 1000 mg of the compounds of the invention, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof, and (ii) 0.1 to 2 grams of one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

In some embodiments, a compound described herein is incorporated into a topical formulation containing a topical carrier that is generally suited to topical drug administration and comprising any such material known in the art. The topical carrier may be selected so as to provide the composition in the desired form, e.g., as an ointment, lotion, cream, microemulsion, gel, oil, solution, or the like, and may be comprised of a material of either naturally occurring or synthetic origin. It is preferable that the selected carrier not adversely affect the active agent or other components of the topical formulation. Examples of suitable topical carriers for use herein include water, alcohols and other nontoxic organic solvents, glycerin, mineral oil, silicone, petroleum jelly, lanolin, fatty acids, vegetable oils, parabens, waxes, and the like.

Formulations may be colorless, odorless ointments, lotions, creams, microemulsions and gels.

The compounds may be incorporated into ointments, which generally are semisolid preparations which are typically based on petrolatum or other petroleum derivatives. The specific ointment base to be used, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, is one that will provide for optimum drug delivery, and, preferably, will provide for other desired characteristics as well, e.g., emolliency or the like. As with other carriers or vehicles, an ointment base should be inert, stable, nonirritating and nonsensitizing.

The compounds may be incorporated into lotions, which generally are preparations to be applied to the skin surface without friction, and are typically liquid or semiliquid preparations in which solid particles, including the active agent, are present in a water or alcohol base. Lotions are usually suspensions of solids, and may comprise a liquid oily emulsion of the oil-in-water type.

The compounds may be incorporated into creams, which generally are viscous liquid or semisolid emulsions, either oil-in-water or water-in-oil. Cream bases are water-washable, and contain an oil phase, an emulsifier and an aqueous phase. The oil phase is generally comprised of petrolatum and a fatty alcohol such as cetyl or stearyl alcohol; the aqueous phase usually, although not necessarily, exceeds the oil phase in volume, and generally contains a humectant. The emulsifier in a cream formulation, as explained in Remington's, supra, is generally a nonionic, anionic, cationic or amphoteric surfactant.

The compounds may be incorporated into microemulsions, which generally are thermodynamically stable, isotropically clear dispersions of two immiscible liquids, such as oil and water, stabilized by an interfacial film of surfactant molecules (Encyclopedia of Pharmaceutical Technology (New York: Marcel Dekker, 1992), volume 9).

The compounds may be incorporated into gel formulations, which generally are semisolid systems consisting of either suspensions made up of small inorganic particles (two-phase systems) or large organic molecules distributed substantially uniformly throughout a carrier liquid (single phase gels). Although gels commonly employ aqueous carrier liquid, alcohols and oils can be used as the carrier liquid as well.

Other active agents may also be included in formulations, e.g., other anti-inflammatory agents, analgesics, antimicrobial agents, antifungal agents, antibiotics, vitamins, antioxidants, and sunblock agents commonly found in sunscreen formulations including, but not limited to, anthranilates, benzophenones (particularly benzophenone-3), camphor derivatives, cinnamates (e.g., octyl methoxycinnamate), dibenzoyl methanes (e.g., butyl methoxydibenzoyl methane), p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and derivatives thereof, and salicylates (e.g., octyl salicylate).

In certain topical formulations, the active agent is present in an amount in the range of approximately 0.25 wt. % to 75 wt. % of the formulation, preferably in the range of approximately 0.25 wt. % to 30 wt. % of the formulation, more preferably in the range of approximately 0.5 wt. % to 15 wt. % of the formulation, and most preferably in the range of approximately 1.0 wt. % to 10 wt. % of the formulation.

Conditions of the eye can be treated or prevented by, e.g., systemic, topical, intraocular injection of a compound, or by insertion of a sustained release device that releases a compound. A compound may be delivered in a pharmaceutically acceptable ophthalmic vehicle, such that the compound is maintained in contact with the ocular surface for a sufficient time period to allow the compound to penetrate the corneal and internal regions of the eye, as for example the anterior chamber, posterior chamber, vitreous body, aqueous humor, vitreous humor, cornea, iris/ciliary, lens, choroid/retina and sclera. The pharmaceutically acceptable ophthalmic vehicle may, for example, be an ointment, vegetable oil or an encapsulating material. Alternatively, the compounds of the invention may be injected directly into the vitreous and aqueous humour. In a further alternative, the compounds may be administered systemically, such as by intravenous infusion or injection, for treatment of the eye.

The compounds described herein may be stored in oxygen free environment. For example, a composition can be prepared in an airtight capsule for oral administration, such as Capsugel from Pfizer, Inc.

Cells, e.g., treated ex vivo with a compound as described herein, can be administered according to methods for administering a graft to a subject, which may be accompanied, e.g., by administration of an immunosuppressant drug, e.g., cyclosporin A. For general principles in medicinal formulation, the reader is referred to Cell Therapy: Stem Cell Transplantation, Gene Therapy, and Cellular Immunotherapy, by G. Morstyn & W. Sheridan eds, Cambridge University Press, 1996; and Hematopoietic Stem Cell Therapy, E. D. Ball, J. Lister & P. Law, Churchill Livingstone, 2000.

Toxicity and therapeutic efficacy of compounds can be determined by standard pharmaceutical procedures in cell cultures or experimental animals. The LD₅₀ is the dose lethal to 50% of the population. The ED₅₀ is the dose therapeutically effective in 50% of the population. The dose ratio between toxic and therapeutic effects (LD₅₀/ED₅₀) is the therapeutic index. Compounds that exhibit large therapeutic indexes are preferred. While compounds that exhibit toxic side effects may be used, care should be taken to design a delivery system that targets such compounds to the site of affected tissue in order to minimize potential damage to uninfected cells and, thereby, reduce side effects.

The data obtained from the cell culture assays and animal studies can be used in formulating a range of dosage for use in humans. The dosage of such compounds may lie within a range of circulating concentrations that include the ED₅₀ with little or no toxicity. The dosage may vary within this range depending upon the dosage form employed and the route of administration utilized. For any compound, the therapeutically effective dose can be estimated initially from cell culture assays. A dose may be formulated in animal models to achieve a circulating plasma concentration range that includes the IC₅₀ (i.e., the concentration of the test compound that achieves a half-maximal inhibition of symptoms) as determined in cell culture. Such information can be used to more accurately determine useful doses in humans. Levels in plasma may be measured, for example, by high performance liquid chromatography.

6. Kits

Also provided herein are kits, e.g., kits for therapeutic purposes or kits for modulating the lifespan of cells or modulating apoptosis. A kit may comprise one or more compounds as described herein, e.g., in premeasured doses. A kit may optionally comprise devices for contacting cells with the compounds and instructions for use. Devices include syringes, stents and other devices for introducing a compound into a subject (e.g., the blood vessel of a subject) or applying it to the skin of a subject.

In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a composition of matter comprising a compound of this invention and another therapeutic agent (the same ones used in combination therapies and combination compositions) in separate dosage forms, but associated with one another. The term “associated with one another” as used herein means that the separate dosage forms are packaged together or otherwise attached to one another such that it is readily apparent that the separate dosage forms are intended to be sold and administered as part of the same regimen. The compound and the other agent are preferably packaged together in a blister pack or other multi-chamber package, or as connected, separately sealed containers (such as foil pouches or the like) that can be separated by the user (e.g., by tearing on score lines between the two containers).

In still another embodiment, the invention provides a kit comprising in separate vessels, a) a compound of this invention; and b) another therapeutic agent such as those described elsewhere in the specification.

The practice of the present methods will employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of cell biology, cell culture, molecular biology, transgenic biology, microbiology, recombinant DNA, and immunology, which are within the skill of the art. Such techniques are explained fully in the literature. See, for example, Molecular Cloning A Laboratory Manual, 2^(nd) Ed., ed. by Sambrook, Fritsch and Maniatis (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press: 1989); DNA Cloning, Volumes I and II (D. N. Glover ed., 1985); Oligonucleotide Synthesis (M. J. Gait ed., 1984); Mullis et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,683,195; Nucleic Acid Hybridization (B. D Hames & S. J. Higgins eds. 1984); Transcription And Translation (B. D. Hames & S. J. Higgins eds. 1984); Culture Of Animal Cells (R. I. Freshney, Alan R. Liss, Inc., 1987); Immobilized Cells And Enzymes (IRL Press, 1986); B. Perbal, A Practical Guide To Molecular Cloning (1984); the treatise, Methods In Enzymology (Academic Press, Inc., N.Y.); Gene Transfer Vectors For Mammalian Cells (J. H. Miller and M. P. Calos eds., 1987, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory); Methods In Enzymology, Vols. 154 and 155 (Wu et al. eds.), Immunochemical Methods In Cell And Molecular Biology (Mayer and Walker, eds., Academic Press, London, 1987); Handbook Of Experimental Immunology, Volumes I-IV (D. M. Weir and C. C. Blackwell, eds., 1986); Manipulating the Mouse Embryo, (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1986).

EXEMPLIFICATION

The invention now being generally described, it will be more readily understood by reference to the following examples which are included merely for purposes of illustration of certain aspects and embodiments of the present invention, and are not intended to limit the invention in any way.

Example 1. Preparation of N-(pyridin-2-yl)-6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 4) Step 1. Synthesis of 6-chloropyridazin-3-amine

A suspension of 3,6-dichloropyridazine (23.8 g, 155 mmol) in 25% aqueous ammonia (50 mL) was heated at 100° C. for about 12 h in a PTFE-lined pressure reactor. Upon cooling to room temp, the resulting crystalline solids were collected by filtration, washed with water and dried to afford to 6-chloropyridazin-3-amine (20.0 g, 96%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₄H₄ClN₃: 129.0.

Step 2. Synthesis of Potassium Salt of ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxopropanoate

To a mixture containing ethyl formate (6.0 g, 81 mmol) and ethyl chloroacetate (9.89 g, 81 mmol) in 2-isopropoxypropane (200 mL) was added potassium tert-butoxide (t-BuOK) (9.07 g, 81 mmol) at 0° C. The mixture was stirred at room temp for 24 h. The mixture was filtered and the resulting yellow solids were washed with ethoxyethane to afford the potassium salt of ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxopropanoate (8.88 g, 58%).

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A mixture containing 6-chloropyridazin-3-amine (1.55 g, 119 mmol) and the potassium salt of ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxopropanoate (6.76 g, 357 mmol) in EtOH (100 mL) was stirred under reflux for 10 h. Upon cooling to room temp, the reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification by chromatography afforded ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.5 g, 56%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₈ClN₃O₂: 225.03; found: 226 [M+H].

Step 4. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A mixture containing ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.25 g, 5.55 mmol), 3-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (5.55 mmol), Cs₂CO₃ (3.62 g, 11.1 mmol) and Pd(PPh₃)₄ (0.32 g, 0.277 mmol) in 4:1:1 dioxane/water/ethanol (10 mL) was stirred at 100° C. for 2 h. Upon cooling to room temp, the reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification by chromatography afforded ethyl 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.5 g, 80%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₂: 335.09; found: 336 [M+H].

Step 5. Synthesis of 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

A mixture containing NaOH (0.36 g, 89.5 mmol) and ethyl 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.5 g, 4.47 mmol) 1:1 dioxane:H₂O (5 mL) was stirred at 0° C. for 4 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and enough 2% aqueous HCl was added to adjust the pH=5. The resulting solids were collected by filtration, washed with water and dried to afford 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (1.1 g, 81%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₈F₃N₃O₂: 307.06; found: 308 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure followed by ester hydrolysis could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3-substituted phenyl) and 6-(2,6-disubstituted phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylates by substituting the appropriate boronic acid or boronic ester moiety for 3-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid.

Step 6. Synthesis of N-(pyridin-2-yl)-6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

The following general amide coupling procedure was used:

A mixture containing 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (200.0 mg, 0.65 mmol), 2-(7-Aza-1H-benzotriazole-1-yl)-1,1,33-tetramethyluronium in hexafluorophosphate (HATU) (495.0 mg, 1.3 mmol), pyridin-2-amine (73.0 mg, 0.78 mmol) and N,N-Diisopropylethylamine (DIEA) (336.0 mg, 1.3 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was stirred at 80° C. for 12 h. After cooling to room temp, the reaction mixture was concentrated and water was added. After extraction with CH₂Cl₂, the organic layer was dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification by chromatography afforded N-(pyridin-2-yl)-6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (30.0 mg, 12%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O: 383.10; found: 384 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl), 6-(3-trifluoromethoxyphenyl), 6-(3-morpholine), 6-(3-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl and 6-(2-flouro-6-fluorophenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxyamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for pyridine-2-amine.

Example 2. Preparation of N-(6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 19) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

Dioxane (anhydrous, 30 mL) and Cs₂CO₃ (21.4 g, 65.6 mmol) were added to a mixture of ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (7.4 g, 32.8 mmol) and 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (8.1 g, 42.6 mmol). The mixture was then added to Pd(Ph₃P)₄ (1.9 g, 1.64 mmol), and the reaction was heated to 130° C. in microwave. The mixture was filtered. After cooling to room temp, the filtrate was concentrated, and the residue was purified by column chromatography to give ethyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (4.3 g, yield: 58%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₂: 335.1.

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a solution of compound ethyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (2.25 g, 6.71 mmol) in water (25 mL) was added NaOH (4.29 g, 107 mmol). The solution was stirred for 20 min at 70° C. and pH was adjusted to 3 using concentrated HCl. After cooling to room temp, filtration gave 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (1.84 g, 89%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₈F₃N₃O₂: 335.1.

This general coupling procedure followed by ester hydrolysis could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(2-substituted phenyl), 6-(3-substituted phenyl), 6-(2,5-disubstituted phenyl), 6-(2,4-disubstituted phenyl), 6-(3,4-disubstituted phenyl), 6-(3,5-disubstituted phenyl), 6-(2,3-disubstituted phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acids by substituting the appropriate boronic acid or boronic ester for 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid.

Step 3. Synthesis of N-(6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

To 2 mL of DMF were added 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-amine (24.4 mg, 0.24 mmol), 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (50.0 mg, 0.16 mmol), HATU (119.0 mg, 0.32 mmol) and DIEA (41.0 mg, 0.32 mmol). The resulting mixture was stirred at 70° C. overnight. Water (20 mL) was added and the product was collected by filtration, washed with H₂O and dried to afford N-(6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (62.0 mg, 78.9%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₂₁F₃N₆O₂: 482.1; found: 483.01 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(2-trifluoromethyl)phenyl), 6-(2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl), 6-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl), 6-(3-chlorophenyl), 6-(3-fluorophenyl), 6-(2,5-difluorophenyl), 6-(2,4-difluorophenyl), 6-(3,4-difluorophenyl), 6-(3,5-difluorophenyl), 6-(2,3-difluorophenyl), 6-(2-chloro-3-fluorophenyl), 6-(2-(methylsulfonyl)phenyl and 6-(2-cyanophenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 3. Preparation of N-(6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

To a mixture of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.33 mmol) and HATU (245.0 mg, 0.64 mmol) DMF (2 mL) was added and stirred for 5 min. To this suspension, 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-amine (93.0 mg, 0.49 mmol) and DIEA (0.12 mL) were added and the reaction was stirred at 60° C. for 18 h. After cooling to room temp, MeOH (0.3 mL) was added. The crude product was purified by reverse phase preparative HPLC to afford 53.0 mg (33%) of N-(6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2 (trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide. MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₁₉F₃N₆O₂: 480.1; found: 481.2 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could also be used to prepare N-(2-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyrimidin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide.

Example 4. Preparation of N-(2-(3-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpropoxy)pyrimidin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 278)

(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide was prepared using the general coupling method above. The ring opening of the oxetane in the final product (N-(2-(3-hydroxy-2-(hydroxymethyl)-2-methylpropoxy)pyrimidin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide) occurred during preparative HPLC purification. MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₃H₂₁F₃N₆O₄: 502.1.

Example 5. Preparation of N-(6-((1,3-dihydroxypropan-2-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 423) Step 1. Synthesis of N-(6-((2-phenyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

N-(6-((2-phenyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide was obtained (40.0 mg, 22%) from HATU mediated coupling of 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (100.0 mg, 0.32 mmol) and 6-((2-phenyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-amine following the same procedure as described for the preparation of Compound 19. MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₈H₂₁F₃N₅O₄: 561.1.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(6-((1,3-dihydroxypropan-2-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

N-(6-((2-phenyl-1,3-dioxan-5-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (40.0 mg, 0.07 mmol) was taken up in EtOH:3N HCl (3:1, 7 mL) and heated to 80° C. for 2 h. After cooling to room temp and evaporating the solvent, the crude product was purified by preparative HPLC to afford N-(6-((1,3-dihydroxypropan-2-yl)oxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (12.0 mg, 35%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₁₈F₃N₅O₄: 473.1; found 474.2.

Example 6. Preparation of N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 212) Step 1. Preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine

NaH (2.3 g, 60% in mineral oil, 57.5 mmol) was added the mixture of 6-chloropyridin-2-amine (2 g, 15.6 mmol) and solketal (6.0 g, 45.4 mmol) in Dioxane (25 mL) solution at 0° C. The temp was elevated to 120° C. for overnight, filtered the solid and concentrated, purified by column chromatography to give 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine (1.3 g, yield: 37.4%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₃:

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine, 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine, 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine, 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-3-amine, 5-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine, 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-4-amine, 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine and 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-6-methylpyridin-4-amine moieties.

Step 2. Preparation of N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine (110.0 mg, 0.49 mmol) was taken up in DMF (1 mL) along with 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.33 mmol), HATU (247.0 mg, 0.65 mmol) and DIEA (84.0 mg, 0.65 mmol). The resulting reaction mixture was stirred at 65° C. for 24 h. Water (25 mL) was added and the solid was filtered, purified by flash chromatography to afford the intermediate N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide as a brown solid (80.0 mg). The solid was taken up in MeOH (10 mL), conc. HCl (0.1 mL) was added, and the mixture was stirred for 1 h at room temp. The solvents were evaporated to give a solid which was stirred with saturated Na₂CO₃ to neutralize the acid. The resulting solid was filtered to afford N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (101.0 mg, 65.6%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₁₈F₃N₅O₄: 473.1; found: 473.8 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrimidin-4-yl), N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrazin-2-yl), N-(4-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrimidin-2-yl), N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-3-yl), N-(5-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(substitued)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides, 6-(2-substituted)-N-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides, 6-(2-substituted)-N-(4-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-6-methylpyrimidin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides and N-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-6-methylpyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-substituted)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by starting from the appropriate 6-(2-(substituted)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid.

Example 7. Preparation of N-(4-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 75)

A mixture of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (154.0 mg, 0.5 mmol) and carboxydiimidazole (162.0 mg, 1.0 mmol) in dioxane (4 mL) was heated to 70° C. for 1 h. 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine (337.0 mg, 1.5 mmol) was then added and heating was continued at 100° C. for 17 h. After cooling to room temp, the solvent was evaporated and the residue was taken up in EtOH:3 N HCl (3:1). The mixture was stirred at room temp for 1 h, then refluxed for 1 h. After evaporating the solvent and purification by preparative HPLC N-(4-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide was obtained (118.0 mg, 50%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₁₈F₃N₅O₄: 473.1; found: 473.8 [M+H].

This general procedure could also be used to prepare N-(4-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-6-methylpyrimidin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide and N-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide.

Example 8. Preparation of (S)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 556) Step 1. Synthesis of (R)—N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

To a solution of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine (200.0 mg, 0.89 mmol) in pyridine (10 mL), 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carbonyl chloride (320.0 mg, 0.98 mmol) was added and the reaction was heated to 60° C. for 10 min. After cooling to room temp, H₂O (50 mL) was added and the mixture was stirred. The white solid was collected by filtration, washed and dried to afford (R)—N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (250.0 mg, yield 54.6%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₂₁F₃N₆O₄: 514.4.

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[12-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

To a solution of (R)—N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (250.0 mg, 0.49 mmol) in MeOH (10 mL) was added conc. HCl (1 mL) at room temp. After stirring for 1 h, 50 mL of cold aqueous NaHCO₃ solution was added. White solid separated after stirring and was collected by filtration, washed with water and dried to afford (S)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (200.0 mg, yield 87%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₇F₃N₆O₄: 474.1.

This general procedure could be used to prepare (R)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyrazin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide, (R)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide, (S)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide, (R)—N-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-6-methylpyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide and (S)—N-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-6-methylpyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide.

Example 9. Preparation of 6-(2-(difluoromethyl)phenyl)-N-(thiazol-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 33) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-formylphenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

Ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (903.0 mg, 4 mmol) was taken up in 5 mL of dioxane/water (4:1) along with 2-formylphenylboronic acid (720.0 mg, 4.8 mmol), Pd(PPh₃)₄ (231.0 mg, 0.2 mmol) and Na₂CO₃ (1.02 g, 9.6 mmol). The resulting reaction mixture was stirred at 120° C. for 20 min in a microwave reactor. Upon cooling to room temp, the mixture was diluted with methylene chloride (DCM) (20 mL) and filtered. The filtrate was dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting residue was purified by chromatography to afford 6-(2-formyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (700.0 mg, 59%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₃N₃O₃: 295.10; found: 296 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-(difluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To a solution of 6-(2-formyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (7.40 g, 25 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (160 mL) was added a solution of diethylaminosulfur trifluoride (DAST) (6.05 g, 37.6 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (20 mL) at 0° C. The resulting reaction mixture was stirred under a gentle reflux for 48 h. The mixture was then poured into a saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ solution and further extracted with DCM. The combined organic layers were dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. Purification by chromatography afforded 6-(2-difluoromethyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (1.0 g, 13%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₃F₂N₃O₂: 317.10; found: 318[M+H].

Step 3. 6-(2-(difluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a solution of 6-(2-difluoromethyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid ethyl ester (1.17 g, 3.69 mmol) in MeOH (50 mL) was added a solution of sodium hydroxide (6.0 N, 15 mL). The resulting reaction mixture was stirred under reflux for 90 min. Upon cooling to room temp, the mixture was acidified to pH=4 and then concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting residue was purified by chromatography to afford 6-(2-difluoromethyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (970.0 mg, 90%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₉F₂N₃O₂: 289.07; found: 290 [M+H].

Step 4. Synthesis of 6-(2-(difluoromethyl)phenyl)-N-(thiazol-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

6-(2-Difluoromethyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (0.3 mmol) and thiazol-2-amine (0.36 mmol) were subjected to the same general amide coupling procedure described above to prepare 6-(2-difluoromethyl-phenyl)-imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid thiazol-2-ylamide (yield 61.3%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₁F₂N₅OS: 371.07; found: 372 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(2-(difluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for thiazol-2-amine.

Example 10. Preparation of 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-(2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 54) Step 1. Synthesis of 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a solution of ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (500.0 mg, 2.21 mmol) in dioxane:EtOH:H₂O (4:1:3, 9 mL), (3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)boronic acid (404 mg, 2.87 mmol), Cs₂CO₃ (1.45 g, 4.42 mmol) and Pd(PPh₃)₄ (127.0 mg, 0.11 mmol) were added and the reaction was refluxed for 15 h. After cooling to room temp, the solvents were evaporated and the solid was taken up in THF (6 mL). A solution of LiOH (106.0 mg, 4.42 mmol) in H₂O (3 mL) was added, the mixture was stirred for 15 h. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure and the residue was acidified to pH 4 with 3N HCl. The volatiles were evaporated under reduced pressure and the solid was triturated with MeOH:H₂O (1:1). Upon filtration 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid was obtained (331.0 mg, 58%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₀N₄O₃: 258.1; found: 258.9 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure followed by ester hydrolysis could be used to prepare 6-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl), 6-(2-methylpyridin-3-yl), 6-(5-(difluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl), 6-(2-methylpyridin-3-yl), 6-(2,4-dimethylthiazole), 6-(2,3,4-trifluromethyl phenyl), 6-(2-fluorophenyl), 6-(2-chlorophenyl) 6-(2-fluoro-3-chlorophenyl) and 6-(2-chloro-6-fluorophenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acids by substituting the appropriate boronic acid or boronic ester moiety for (3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)boronic acid.

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-(2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

A solution of 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (75.0 mg, 0.29 mmol), HATU (228.0 mg, 0.6 mmol), 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine (72.0 mg, 0.44 mmol) and DIEA (0.11 mL) in DMF (2 mL) was stirred at room temp for 15 h. H₂O was added until solid precipitated out, which was collected by filtration, washed with H₂O and dried to afford 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-(2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (44.0 mg, 38%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₂₁N₇O₂: 403.1; found: 404 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl), 6-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl), 6-(2-methylpyridin-3-yl), 6-(5-(difluoromethyl)pyridin-3-yl), 6-(2,4-dimethylthiazole), 6-(2,3,4-trifluromethyl phenyl), 6-(2-fluorophenyl), 6-(2-chlorophenyl), 6-(2-fluoro-3-chlorophenyl) and 6-(2-chloro-6-fluorophenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine.

Example 11. Preparation of 6-(thiazol-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a solution of ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (250.0 mg, 1.1 mmol) and 2-(tributylstannyl)thiazole (619.0 mg, 1.65 mmol) in dioxane (5 mL), Pd(PPh₃)₄ (150.0 mg, 0.17 mmol) was added and the reaction was heated to 80° C. for 17 h. After cooling to room temp, LiOH (53.0 mg, 2.3 mmol) in THF:H₂O (3:1) was added and stirred vigorously for 4 h. The solvents were evaporated and 6-(thiazol-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid was precipitated out from MeOH:H₂O (164.0 mg, yield 66%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₆N₄O₂S: 246.02.

The general amide coupling procedure described above for 6-(3,5-dimethylisoxazol-4-yl)-N-(2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide could be used to prepare N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)-6-(thiazol-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 64).

Example 12. Preparation of 6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 367) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-hydroxyphenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (200.0 mg, 0.89 mmol), 2-hydroxyphenylboronic acid (183.0 mg, 1.33 mmol) Cs₂CO₃ (342.0 mg, 1.77 mmol), and Pd(PPh₃)₄ (102.0 mg, 0.09 mmol) was taken up in dioxane (4 mL) and refluxed for 2 h. After cooling to room temp, the reaction was diluted with EtOAc and extracted with H₂O. The organic layer was dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered and evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure. The crude material was purified by vacuum distillation to afford ethyl 6-(2-hydroxyphenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (120.0 mg, 47.8%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₃N₃O₃: 283.1.

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To a solution of ethyl 6-(2-hydroxyphenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (50.0 mg, 0.18 mmol), and triphenylphosphine (55.6 mg, 0.21 mmol), (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (25.7 mg, 0.19 mmol) and DIAD (27.7 mg, 0.21 mmol) were added. The mixture was stirred in THF (2 mL) at 60° C. for 2 h. After cooling to room temp, the crude material was purified by column chromatography to give ethyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate. MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₂₃N₃O₅: 397.2.

Step 3. Synthesis of 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

Ethyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (2.0 g, 5.03 mmol) was hydrolyzed to 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid following the general procedure described above (1.3 g, 69.9%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₉N₃O₅: 369.37.

Step 4. Synthesis of 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (80.0 mg, 0.22 mmol) and 6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine were coupled using the HATU mediated general amide coupling procedure described above for preparation of Compound 19 to afford 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (50.0 mg, 43%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₈H₃₀N₆O₅: 530.2.

This general procedure could be used to prepare (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl), (R)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl), 6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl) and 6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)N-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acids by substituting the appropriate boronic acid for 2-hydroxyphenylboronic acid in step 1, and substituting the appropriate alcohol for (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol in step 2.

Step 5. Synthesis of 6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (50.0 mg, 0.09 mmol) was dissolved in MeOH (2 mL), HCl (0.5 mL) was added and the reaction stirred at room temp for 15 h. The solvents were evaporated, the mixture was washed taken up in Na₂CO₃ solution and the resultant solids were filtered to give 6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (40.0 mg, 90%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₅H₂₆N₆O₅: 490.2; found 491.1 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-N-(substituted), 6-(3-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-N-(substituted) and 6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-N-(substituted) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides.

Example 13. Preparation of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 487) Step 1. Synthesis of (S)-ethyl 6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (500.0 mg, 2.22 mmol), (S)-3-fluoropyrrolidin hydrochloride (557.0 mg, 4.43 mmol), and K₂CO₃ (1.53 g, 11.08 mmol) in DMSO (50 mL) was heated at 120° C. for 12 h. The mixture was portioned between H₂O and EtOAc and the organic layer was separated and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give (S)-ethyl 6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (300.0 mg, 49% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₁₅FN₄O₂ (m/z): 278.12.

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

A mixture of (S)-ethyl 6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (300.0 mg, 1.08 mmol) and NaOH (172.0 mg, 1.08 mmol) in MeOH/H₂O (200 mL, 1:1) was heated at 70° C. for 2 h. The mixture was concentrated and the pH was adjusted to 3 by the addition of 2% aq HCl. The mixture was concentrated to give (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (240.0 mg, 69% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₁FN₄O₂ (m/z): 250.09.

This general coupling procedure followed by ester hydrolysis could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3,3-difluoropyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl), 6-(3-dimethylpyrrolidin-3-amine), 6-(3,3-difluoroazetidin-1-yl), 6-(4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl), 6-(3-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-hydroxypyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-methoxypyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-fluoropiperidin-1-yl), 6-(morpolin-1-yl), 6-(3-methylmorpolin-1-yl), 6-(3,5-dimethylmorpolin-1-yl) and 6-(N-methylpiperazin-1-yl), 6-(3-fluoropiperidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylates by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for (S)-3-fluoropyrrolidine hydrochloride in step 1. This general procedure could also be used to prepare (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid by substituting ethyl 6-chloro-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate for ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate in step 1.

Step 3. Synthesis of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

A solution of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.40 mmol), 6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine (107.0 mg, 0.60 mmol), DIPEA (103.0 mg, 0.80 mmol) and HATU (304.0 mg, 0.80 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was heated at 70° C. for 16 h. H₂O was added and the resulting ppt was purified by flash chromatography to give (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (45.0 mg, 27% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₂₂FN₇O₂ (m/z): 411.18; found: 412 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3,3-difluoropyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-dimethylpyrrolidin-3-amine), 6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3,3-difluoroazetidin-1-yl), 6-(4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl), 6-(3-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-hydroxypyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-methoxypyrrolidin-1-yl), 6-(3-fluoropiperidin-1-yl), 6-(morpolin-1-yl), 6-(3-methylmorpolin-1-yl), 6-(3,5-dimethylmorpolin-1-yl), 6-(N-methylpiperazin-1-yl) and 6-(3-fluoropiperidin-1-yl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides, as well as 6-(substituted)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for 6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine and substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid moiety for (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid. In cases where the carboxylic acid moiety contains a protected glycerol group, and extra deprotection step is used as in previous examples.

Example 14. Preparation of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To 3,3,3-trifluoropropan-1-ol (19.9 mmol) in DMSO was added NaH (19.9 mmol). The mixture was allowed to stir at room temp under inert atmosphere for 1 h. Ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (3.0 g, 13.3 mmol) was added and the reaction was warmed to 100° C. until coupling was complete. After purification ethyl 6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate was obtained (1.2 g, 45%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₂F₃N₃O₃: 303.08.

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a solution of ethyl 6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.2 g, 3.96 mmol) in water/THF (1:1) was added LiOH (474.0 mg, 19.79 mmol). The reaction was allowed to stir at room temp until hydrolysis was complete. After purification 6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid was obtained (0.9 g, 83%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₈F₃N₃O₃: 275.05.

Step 3. Synthesis of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.36 mmol) was dissolved in DCM. DMF (1 drop) and oxalyl chloride were added and the mixture was allowed to stir 1 h or more. 3-aminopyridine and DIEA were added and after coupling was complete, purification gave N-(pyridin-3-yl)-6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (60.0 mg, 47%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₂F₃N₅O₂: 351.09.

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3,3,3-trifluoropropoxy)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 3-aminopyridine.

Example 15. Preparation of 2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 462) Step 1. Synthesis of Ethyl 6-chloro-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

6-chloropyridazin-3-amine (1.0 g, 7.72 mmol), ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxobutanoate (2.53 g, 15.4 mmol) and EtOH (15 mL) was refluxed for 24 h. Upon cooling the mixture to room temp, the reaction was concentrated under reduced pressure. Crude material was adsorbed onto silica gel and purified by column chromatography to give ethyl 6-chloro-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (480.0 mg, 26%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₀ClN₃O₂: 239.05.

Step 2. 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a mixture of 6-chloro-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (5.26 g, 22 mmol) and 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl-boronic acid (6.26 g, 32.5 mmol) in dioxane:EtOH:H₂O (8:1:1, 100 mL) was added Pd(PPh₃)₄ (2.4 g, 2.1 mmol) and Cs₂CO₃ (13.7 g, 42 mmol). The reaction was refluxed for 2 h. After cooling to room temp, the reaction was diluted with EtOAc (400 mL) and extracted with H₂O. The organic layer was dried, concentrated and the crude product was purified by column chromatography (0-10% CH₂Cl₂+MeOH). This material was taken up in THF, LiOH (1.58 g, 66 mmol) in H₂O was added and the mixture was stirred for 17 h. The solvents were evaporated and the residue was acidified with 3N HCl to pH 3. This aqueous suspension was extracted with EtOAc (2×300 mL). Combined organic layers were evaporated to dryness, the residue was purified by column chromatography (0-10% CH₂Cl₂+MeOH) to afford 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (4.5 g, 64%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₀F₃N₃O₂: 321.1; found 322.1 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure followed by ester hydrolysis could be used to prepare a variety of 2-methyl-6-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(3-trifluoromethoxyphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-difluoromethylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-methylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(3-methylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(3-fluorophenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-fluorophenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-bromophenyl), and 2-methyl-6-(3-cyanophenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylates by substituting the appropriate boronic acid or boronic ester moiety for 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid.

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (1.1 g, 3.43 mmol), and HATU (2.6 g, 6.8 mmol) were taken up in DMF (12 mL). Pyridazine-3-amine (530.0 mg, 5.57 mmol) and DIEA (1.3 mL) were added and the resulting reaction mixture was stirred at 60° C. for overnight. After cooling to room temp, water (12 mL) was added and the solid was separated by filtration. The solid was taken up in EtOAc and washed with saturated NaHCO₃ solution. The organic layer was dried, evaporated and the crude product was purified by column chromatography (DCM+MeOH 0-5%) to afford 2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (570.0 mg, 42%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₃F₃N₆O: 398.1; found: 399.1 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 2-methyl-6-(3-trifluoromethylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(3-trifluoromethoxyphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-trifluoromethoxyphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-difluoromethylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-methylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(3-methylphenyl), 2-methyl-6-(3-fluorophenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-fluorophenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-chlorophenyl), 2-methyl-6-(2-bromophenyl), and 2-methyl-6-(3-cyanophenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for pyridazine-3-amine.

Example 16. Preparation of N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 602)

A pressure tube was charged with a solution of CDI (75.5 mg, 0.47 mmol) in dioxane (2 mL). A solution of 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.31 mmol) in dioxane:DMA (1:1, 2 mL) was added and the mixture was heated to 100° C. for 15 h. 6-methoxypyrimidin-4-amine (117.0 mg, 0.93 mmol) was then added and the heating was continued for 3 d. After cooling to room temp, H₂O was added and suspension was extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The crude material was purified by column chromatography (0-5% CH₂Cl₂+MeOH) to afford N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (71.0 mg, 53%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₅F₃N₆O₂: 428.1; found: 429.1 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide and N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide.

Example 17. Preparation of N-(5-chloropyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 433)

2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (97.0 mg, 0.3 mmol) and HATU (228.0 mg, 0.6 mmol) were taken up in ACN (2 mL) in a pressure tube. 5-Chloropyridine-2-amine (57.4 mg, 0.45 mmol) and pyridine (0.1 mL) were added and the reaction was heated to 100° C. for 15 h. After cooling to room temp, H₂O was added and the solid was separated by filtration to afford N-(5-chloropyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (80.0 mg, 43%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₃ClF₃N₅O: 431.08; found: 432.1 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare N-(1-ethyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide, 2-methyl-N-(1-methyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide and N-(1-isopropyl-1H-pyrazol-5-yl)-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide.

Example 18. Preparation of (R)-6-(3-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 772) Step 1. Synthesis of (S)-6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

(S)-6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.261 mmol) and 2-aminopyridine (37.0 mg, 0.392 mmol) were coupled using the HATU mediated general amide coupling procedure described above for preparation of Compound 19 to afford (S)-6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (50.0 mg, 43%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₅H₂₅N₅O₄: 459.2. This procedure could be used to prepare (S)-6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid and (R)-6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid by reacting 6-chloro-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate with 3-hydroxyphenylboronic acid. MS (ESI) calculated for C₂₀H₂₁N₃O₅ 383.15.

Step 2. Synthesis of (R)-6-(3-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

(S)-6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (50.0 mg, 0.108 mmol) was taken up in EtOH: 3N HCl (3:1, 4 mL). This clear solution was stirred at room temp for 3 h. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure and the product was purified by reverse phase preparative HPLC to afford (R)-6-(3-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (20.0 mg, 50%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₂₁N₅O₄: 419.1; found: 420.2 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 2-aminopyridine.

Example 19. Preparation of (R)-6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 815) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To the degassed dimethoxyethane (DME) (150 mL) were added ethyl 6-chloro-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (3.8 g, 15.9 mmol), 2-hydroxyphenylboronic acid (3.28 g, 23.8 mmol), Pd(dppf)Cl₂ (697.0 mg, 0.95 mmol), and K₂CO₃ (4.38 g, 31.7 mmol). The mixture was stirred at 100° C. for 12 h. The mixture was concentrated and purified by column chromatography (pet ether:ethyl acetate=4:1) to give ethyl 6-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (2.0 g, 40% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₅N₃O₃: 297.1.

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)-ethyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To a solution of ethyl 6-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (2.0 g, 6.7 mmol) and (R)-4-Chloromethyl-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane (1.5 g, 10 mmol) in DMF (80 mL) was added K₂CO₃ (3.7 g, 27 mmol). The mixture was heated to 100° C. for 12 h. After cooling to room temp, the solvent was removed in vacuo and ethyl acetate: H₂O (60 mL, 1:1) was added to the mixture. The resulting mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (30 mL×3), combined organic layers were dried, and crude product was purified by column chromatography (petroleum ether: ethyl acetate=8:1) to give (S)-ethyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (2.0 g, 72% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₂₅N₃O₅: 411.2.

Step 3. Synthesis of (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

A solution of (S)-ethyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.9 g, 4.6 mmol) and LiOH H₂O (0.97 g, 23 mmol) in THF: H₂O (60 mL, 5:1) was stirred at 50° C. overnight. The THF was removed in vacuo and the pH was adjusted to 4 using 1N aq HCl. The resulting precipitate was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O and dried to give (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (1.4 g, 80% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₂₁N₃O₅: 383.1.

This general procedure could be used to prepare 6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid by substituting 3-hydroxyphenylboronic acid for 2-hydroxyphenylboronic acid.

Step 4. Synthesis of (R)-6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

To a solution of (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.26 mmol), 2-aminopyridine (49.0 mg, 0.52 mmol) and HATU (198.0 mg, 0.52 mmol) in DMF (1.5 mL) was added DIEA (0.2 mL), the mixture was stirred at 60° C. overnight. H₂O was added and the resulting precipitate was filtered to give the crude product. The crude product was taken up in EtOH:3N HCl (3:1) and stirred overnight. The solvents were evaporated and further purification by using reverse phase preparative HPLC afforded (R)-6-(2-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide as a white solid (16.4 mg, yield 15% over two steps). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₂₁N₅O₄: 419.1; found 420.0 [M+H].

Example 20. Preparation of (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 774) Step 1. Synthesis of (S)-4-nitrophenyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To a solution of (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (800.0 mg, 2.09 mmol) and 4-dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) (382.0 mg, 3.13 mmol) in 10 mL of DMF was added 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide) (EDCI) (600.0 mg, 3.13 mmol) under nitrogen. After stirring at room temp for 2 h, 4-nitrophenol (294.0 mg, 2.09 mmol) was added to the reaction and stirred at room temp for 18 h. Sodium carbonate solution (50 mL) was added to the mixture and aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (2×30 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with aqueous Na₂CO₃ (3×20 mL, until the aqueous layer was colorless), brine and then concentrated in vacuo to give a crude solid, which was triturated in pet ether: ethyl acetate (4:1) to give (S)-4-nitrophenyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate as a white solid (0.15 g, 14% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₆H₂₄N₄O₇: 504.2.

This general procedure could be used to prepare (S)-4-nitrophenyl 6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate by starting from 6-(3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid.

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

To a solution of 4-aminopyrimidine (17.5 mg, 0.14 mmol) in THF (2 mL) at 0° C. was added NaH (8.4 mg, 0.21 mmol) and the reaction stirred for 10 min. (S)-4-nitrophenyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (35.0 mg, 0.07 mmol) was added to the reaction mixture and stirred at room temp for 30 min. Saturated NH₄Cl aqueous solution was added and the mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate. The organic layer was washed with aq. Na₂CO₃, brine, dried over Na₂SO₄ to give the crude product. Further purification by preparation TLC to give (S)-4-nitrophenyl 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (30.2 mg, yield 87%). This material was taken up in EtOH:3N HCl (3:1) and stirred overnight. The solvents were evaporated and washed with aq. Na₂CO₃, brine to afford as a white solid (S)-6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (15.0 mg, two steps yield 50%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₂₀N₆O₄: 420.1; found: 421.2 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)phenyl) and 6-(3-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)phenyl)-2-methyl-N-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 4-aminopyrimidine.

Example 21. Preparation of 8-methyl-N-(pyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 193) Step 1. Synthesis of 6-chloro-5-methylpyridazin-3-amine (and 6-chloro-4-methylpyridazin-3-amine)

A solution of compound 3,6-dichloro-4-methylpyridazine (20.0 g, 122.7 mmol) and ammonium hydroxide in water (86.60 g, 245 mmol) was refluxed for about 30 h. The mixture was concentrated and used in the next step without purification.

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 6-chloro-8-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (and ethyl 6-chloro-7-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate)

A mixture of potassium salt of ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxopropanoate prepared using the procedure above (13.14 g, 69.7 mmol), 6-chloro-5-methylpyridazin-3-amine and 6-chloro-4-methylpyridazine-3amine (5.0 g, 34.8 mmol) was taken up in conc. sulfuric acid (3.42 g, 34.8 mmol) and EtOH (600 mL). The mixture was refluxed for about 30 h after which it was cooled to room temp, concentrated and purified by column chromatography to separate the regioisomeric ethyl 6-chloro-8-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate and ethyl 6-chloro-7-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate which were carried forward as single regioisomers.

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A solution of ethyl 6-chloro-8-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.5 g, 6.26 mmol), 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (2.38 g, 12.52 mmol), Pd(PPh3)4 (0.362 g, 0.313 mmol), Cs₂CO₃ (4.08 g, 12.52 mmol) in a mixture solvents (dioxane:EtOH:H2O) was heated at 100° C. for about 30 h. Water was added and the solid was purified by column chromatography to afford ethyl 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₄F₃N₃O₂: 349.10.

Step 4. Synthesis of 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

To a solution of ethyl 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (0.1 g, 0.29 mmol) in THF (5 mL) and H₂O (5.00 mL) was added NaOH (0.18 g, 4.58 mmol) and the reaction mixture was stirred at 70° C. for 2 h. Solvents were removed under reduced pressure and 2% HCl aqueous was added to make pH=3. The solid was separated by filtration to yield 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₀F₃N₃O₂: 321.1.

Step 5. Synthesis of 8-methyl-N-(pyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (40.0 mg, 0.13 mmol) and 4-amino pyridine (16.0 mg, 0.16 mmol) were coupled using the general amide coupling reaction described above for Compound 19 to afford 8-methyl-N-(pyridine-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (18 mg, 36% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₄F₃N₅O: 397.1; found: 397.9 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 8-methyl-N-(pyridine-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 4-amino pyridine.

Example 22. Preparation of 7-methyl-N-(pyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 223) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

To a mixture of ethyl 6-chloro-7-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.0 g, 4.17 mmol) prepared above, 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (0.95 g, 5.01 mmol), K₃PO₄ (2.66 g, 12.52 mmol), Pd₂(dba)₃ (0.19 g, 0.21 mmol) and X-Phos (0.2 g, 0.42 mmol) was added dioxane (4 mL) and the mixture was heated at 120° C. for about 12 h. After cooling to room temp and concentrating under reduced pressure, the crude product was purified by column chromatography to afford ethyl 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₄F₃N₃O₂: 349.10.

Step 2. Synthesis of 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

Ethyl 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (0.15 g, 0.429 mmol) was hydrolyzed using the general procedure described above for the preparation of 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid to afford 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₀F₃N₃O₂: 321.1.

Step 3. Synthesis of 7-methyl-N-(pyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (50.0 mg, 0.16 mmol) and 4-amino pyridine (23.0 mg, 0.24 mmol) were coupled using the general amide coupling reaction described above to afford 7-methyl-N-(pyridin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (45.0 mg, 73% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₄F₃N₅O: 397.1; found: 397.9 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 7-methyl-N-(substituted)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 4-amino pyridine.

Example 23. Preparation of (R)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 387) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-chloro-7,8-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

Concentrated sulfuric acid (1.14 mL, 21.4 mmol) was added to EtOH (39 mL) and cooled to 0° C. The potassium salt of ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxopropanoate (7.81 g, 41.4 mmol) was added, followed by 6-chloro-4,5-dimethylpyridazin-3-amine (2.11 g, 13.4 mmol). The reaction was allowed to stir at 0° C. for 5 min, then warmed to room temp for 5 min, then heated to reflux for 4 h. The mixture was cooled and concentrated in vacuo. Water was added (50 mL) and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. Purification by silica gel chromatography (0-100% EtOAc in pentane) gave ethyl 6-chloro-7,8-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (1.41 g, 42%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₂ClN₃O₂: 253.06; found: 254 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

Ethyl 6-chloro-7,8-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (750.0 mg, 2.96 mmol) and 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (562.0 mg, 2.96 mmol) were weighed into a 5 mL microwave vial. Dicyclohexyl(2′,6′-dimethoxybiphenyl-2-yl)phosphine (97.0 mg, 0.236 mmol) and K₃PO₄ (1.88 g, 8.87 mmol) were added, and the mixture was suspended in dioxane (3.6 mL) and water (0.36 mL). The mixture was purged with nitrogen for 5 min., tris(dibenzylideneacetone)dipalladium(0) (108.0 mg, 0.118 mmol) was added, and the mixture purged 5 min more with nitrogen. The vial was sealed and the reaction heated to 120° C. in the microwave for 1.5 h. Saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (5 mL) was added and the mixture was allowed to stir 10 min, then it was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. Purification by silica gel chromatography (0-100% EtOAc in pentane) gave ethyl 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (726.0 mg, 68%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₆F₃N₃O₂: 363.12; found: 364 [M+H].

Step 3. Synthesis of 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

Ethyl 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (726.0 mg, 2.0 mmol) was dissolved in THF (38 mL). Water was added (47 mL), followed by LiOH (239.0 mg, 9.98 mmol). The reaction was allowed to stir at room temp for 2 h. 1.0 N aqueous HCl (10.1 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×100 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated to give 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (700.0 mg, quant.). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₂: 335.09; found: 336 [M+H].

Step 4. Synthesis of (S)—N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (150.0 mg, 0.445 mmol) and (S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine (82.0 mg, 0.45 mmol) were coupled according to the general amide coupling procedure above to give (S)—N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (197.0 mg, 81%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₇H₂₆F₃N₅O₄: 541.19; found: 542 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety N-(substituted)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for (S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine.

Step 5. Synthesis of (R)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

(S)—N-(6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (197.0 mg, 0.36 mmol) was dissolved in THF (7.8 mL). Concentrated HCl (aq.) was added (0.12 mL) and the reaction was allowed to stir at room temp for 5 h. Water (5 mL) and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (5 mL) were added, and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The crude material was purified by silica gel column chromatography (0-10% MeOH/CH₂Cl₂) to give (R)—N-(6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)pyridin-2-yl)-7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (53.0 mg, 29%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₂₂F₃N₅O₄: 501.16; found: 502 [M+H].

Example 24. First preparation of 2,8-dimethyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 428) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-chloro-2,8-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (and ethyl 6-chloro-2,7-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate)

A mixture (50.0 g, 349 mmol) of 6-chloro-5-methylpyridazin-3-amine and 6-chloro-4-methylpyridazin-3 amine was dissolved in EtOH (600 mL). Ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxobutanoate (114.0 g, 680 mmol) was added. The mixture was refluxed for 48 h, followed by concentration. Water (500 mL) and CH₂Cl₂ (500 mL) were added. The organic layer was separated and dried over anhydrous Na₂SO₄, concentrated and purified by silica gel column chromatography to separate the methyl isomers, giving pure ethyl 6-chloro-2,8-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (9.4 g, 10%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₂ClN₃O₂: 253.06; found: 253.96 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

Ethyl 6-chloro-2,8-dimethylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (7.4 g, 29 mmol), 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (6.6 g, 35 mmol), cesium carbonate (19.0 g, 58 mmol), Pd(PPh₃)₄ (3.3 g, 3 mmol) were dissolved in a mixture of dioxane:water (4:1) plus 10 drops of EtOH. The mixture was heated to 75° C. for 5 h, then concentrated. Water (200 mL) was added and this was extracted with CH₂Cl₂ (300 mL). The organic layer was concentrated and purified on silica gel to give ethyl 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (8.0 g, 75%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₆F₃N₃O₂: 363.12.

Step 3. Synthesis of 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

Ethyl 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (8.0 g, 22 mmol) was dissolved in dioxane (100 mL). NaOH (1.76 g, 44 mmol) in water (100 mL) was added. The mixture was heated to 60° C. for 2 h, then concentrated. Water (100 mL) was added and the mixture was filtered. The pH was adjusted to 5 with aqueous HCl. The mixture was filtered again and the solid was dried under vacuum to give 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (6.2 g, 75%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₂: 335.09; found: 335.98 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure followed by ester hydrolysis could be used to prepare a variety of carboxylates, including 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-trifluromethyl)phenyl) and 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-trifluromethoxy)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylates, by substituting the appropriate boronic acid or boronic ester moiety for 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid.

Step 4. Synthesis of 2,8-dimethyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (150.0 mg, 0.45 mmol) was dissolved in DMF (2.4 mL). HATU (255.0 mg, 0.67 mmol) was added, followed by diisopropylethylamine (0.312 mL, 1.79 mmol). 3-aminopyridazine-HCl (59.0 mg, 0.45 mmol) was slurried in DMF (2.4 mL) and diisopropylethylamine (0.078 mL, 0.45 mmol) and added to the reaction mixture. This was warmed to 60° C. and allowed to stir under nitrogen atmosphere for 3.5 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp, and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ was added (6 mL), then water was added (10 mL). This was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL) and the combined organics were washed with brine, dried with anhydrous Na₂SO₄, filtered, and concentrated. The crude product was purified by silica gel column chromatography using a gradient of 0-10% MeOH in CH₂Cl₂ to give 2,8-dimethyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (19.6 mg, 11%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₅F₃N₆O: 412.13; found: 413.2 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-trifluromethyl)phenyl) and 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-trifluromethoxy)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for 3-aminopyridazine.

Example 25. Preparation of (R)-8-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 773) Step 1. Synthesis of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine

6-chloropyridazin-3-amine (10.0 g, 77.2 mmol) and 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (29.3 g, 154.4 mmol) were added to a 250 mL flask. Cs₂CO₃ (50.3 g, 154.4 mol), Pd₂(dba)₃ (3.5 g, 3.82 mmol), and XPhos (1.8 g, 3.82 mmol) were added, followed by dioxane (100 mL) and water (20 mL). The reaction was heated to 100° C. for 3 h, followed by cooling to room temp. The mixture was concentrated in vacuo, and the residue was resuspended in DCM (500 mL). The organic layer was washed with bicarb (150 mL), then brine (150 mL), dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. The crude product was purified via silica gel column chromatography (EtOAc: PE 2:1) to give 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (14.0 g, 76%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₈F₃N₃: 239.07.

Step 2. Synthesis of 4-bromo-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine

6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (3.0 g, 12.55 mmol) and NaHCO₃ (2.1 g, 25.1 mmol) were suspended in MeOH (30 mL). Br₂ was added (3.0 g, 0.96 mL, 18.8 mmol) dropwise at room temp. The reaction was allowed to stir for 1 h at room temp, then poured into bicarb (300 mL) after which a precipitate formed. The solid was collected by filtration, washed with water, and dried in vacuo to give 4-bromo-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (3.8 g, 95%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₇BrF₃N₃: 316.98.

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 8-bromo-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

4-bromo-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (500.0 mg, 1.57 mmol) was dissolved in EtOH (3.0 mL). Ethyl 2-chloro-3-oxobutanoate (285.0 mg, 1.73 mmol) was added and the reaction was heated to reflux under nitrogen atmosphere for 22 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp, concentrated in vacuo and purified via silica gel column chromatography (0-100% EtOAc/pentane) to give ethyl 8-bromo-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (246.0 mg, 36%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₃BrF₃N₃O₂: 427.01; found: 428 [M+H].

Step 4. Synthesis of 8-bromo-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-]pyridazine-3-carboxylicacid

Ethyl 8-bromo-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (246.0 mg, 0.573 mmol) was dissolved in THF (11.0 mL). Water was added (13.0 mL), followed by lithium hydroxide (55.0 mg, 2.29 mmol). The reaction was allowed to stir at room temp for 3.5 h. Aqueous HCl (1.0 N, 2.4 mL) was added, and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated in vacuo to give 8-bromo-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (242.0 mg, quant.). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₉BrF₃N₃O₂: 398.98.

Step 5. Synthesis of 8-bromo-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

8-bromo-2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (75.0 mg, 0.187 mmol) was dissolved in MeCN (2.0 mL) in a vial. HATU (107.0 mg, 0.281 mmol), pyridine (44.0 mg, 0.562 mmol), and 3-aminopyridazine (54.0 mg, 0.562 mmol) were added. The vial was sealed and heated to 50° C. for 1 h, then to 80° C. for 2 h. The reaction was cooled to room temp and bicarb was added (4 mL). The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×15 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified via silica gel column chromatography (0-10% MeOH/DCM) to give 8-bromo-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (53.0 mg, 60%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂BrF₃N₆O: 476.02; found: 477 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 8-bromo-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 3-aminopyridazine.

Step 6. Synthesis of (S)-8-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

Sodium hydride (60% in oil, 14.0 mg, 350 mmol) was suspended in THF (2.0 mL). (S)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (46.0 mg, 0.350 mmol) was added dropwise over 5 min. The mixture was allowed to stir at room temp for 30 min. 8-bromo-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (53.0 mg, 0.111 mmol) was added in THF (2.0 mL). The reaction was allowed to stir for 30 min at room temp, then was heated to reflux for 1.5 h, followed by cooling to room temp. Water was added (10 mL), and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified via silica gel column chromatography (0-10% MeOH/DCM) to give (S)-8-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (50.0 mg, 84%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₅H₂₃F₃N₆O₄: 528.17; found: 529 [M+H].

Step 7. Synthesis of (R)-8-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

(S)-8-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (50.0 mg, 0.09 mmol) was dissolved in THF (2.1 mL). Concentrated HCl (0.031 mL) was added, and the reaction was allowed to stir at room temp for 2.5 h, during which time an orange precipitate formed. Bicarb and water were added (5 mL each), and the precipitate dissolved, followed by formation of a new precipitate (white). More water was added (35 mL) and the mixture was allowed to stand 10 min. The solid was collected by filtration, washed with water, and dried in vacuo. The solid was then further purified by trituration with EtOH, filtered and washed with EtOH and then diethyl ether, and dried in vacuo to give (R)-8-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (6.5 mg, 14%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₁₉F₃N₆O₄: 488.14; found: 489 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 8-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-2-methyl-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 3-aminopyridazine in step 5 described above.

Example 26. Preparation of 2-methyl-8-morpholino-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 738) Step 1. Synthesis of 4-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine

4-bromo-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (100.0 mg, 0.314 mmol) was dissolved in DMSO (2.7 mL). Morpholine was added (0.27 mL, 3.14 mmol). The reaction was sealed and allowed to stir at room temp for 1 h, followed by heating to 110° C. for 18 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp and water was added (15 mL). The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL), and the combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated in vacuo to give 4-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (119.0 mg, quant.) which was used without further purification. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₅F₃N₄O: 324.12; found: 325 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 2-methyl-8-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

4-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-amine (59.0 mg, 0.183 mmol) and ethyl-2-chloroacetoacetate (33.0 mg, 0.201 mmol) were dissolved in EtOH (1.0 mL) and heated to reflux under nitrogen atmosphere for 26 h. The reaction was cooled to room temp, causing a precipitate to form. The solid was collected by filtration, washed with cold EtOH, then diethyl ether, and dried in vacuo to give ethyl 2-methyl-8-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (26.0 mg, 33%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₂₁F₃N₄O₃: 434.16; found: 435 [M+H].

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-methyl-8-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

Ethyl 2-methyl-8-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (26.0 mg, 0.060 mmol) was suspended in THF (1.2 mL) water (2.4 mL) and MeOH (1 mL). Lithium hydroxide was added (7.0 mg, 0.300 mmol) and the mixture was heated to reflux for 3 h, followed by cooling to room temp. HCl was added (1.0 N, 0.35 mL), and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×10 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated to give 2-methyl-8-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (23.0 mg, 95%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₇F₃N₄O₃: 406.13; found: 407 [M+H].

Step 4. Synthesis of 2-methyl-8-morpholino-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

2-methyl-8-morpholino-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (23.0 mg, 0.057 mmol) and 3-aminopyridazine (16.0 mg, 0.170 mmol) were dissolved in MeCN (1.2 mL). HATU (32.0 mg, 0.085 mmol) and pyridine (0.014 mL, 0.170 mmol) were added and the vial was sealed and heated to 50° C. for 1 h, then to 80° C. for 2 h. The reaction was cooled to room temp and bicarb (2 mL) and water (1 mL) were added. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×5 mL) but there was precipitate in the organic layer. The solid was collected by filtration and washed with diethyl ether, and dried in vacuo to give 2-methyl-8-morpholino-N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (8.0 mg, 29%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₃H₂₀F₃N₇O₂: 483.16; found: 484 [M+H].

Example 27. Preparation of 2-hydroxy-N-(pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide Step 1. Synthesis of Ethyl 6-chloro-2-hydroxyimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A mixture of 6-chloropyridazin-3-amine (2.0 g, 15.44 mmol) and diethyl 2-chloromalonate (4.51 g, 23.16 mmol) in EtOH (30 mL) was refluxed for 48 h. After cooling to room temp, the mixture was concentrated and purified by column chromatography to afford a 2:1 mixture of 6-chloropyridazin-3-amine and ethyl 6-chloro-2-hydroxyimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate which was used without further purification. MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₈ClN₃O₃: 241.03.

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 2-hydroxy-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 6-chloro-2-hydroxyimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (500.0 mg, 2.069 mmol), 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (786.0 mg, 4.14 mmol), K₃PO₄ (878.0 mg, 4.14 mmol), Pd₂dba₃ (189.0 mg, 0.21 mmol), and X-Phos (197.0 mg, 0.41 mmol) was taken up in dioxane (30 mL), H₂O (8 mL), EtOH (4 mL). The mixture was heated to 130° C. for 24 h. The solids were filtered, the filtrate was concentrated and purified by column chromatography to give ethyl 2-hydroxy-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₃: 351.1.

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-hydroxy-N-(pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

A mixture of Ethyl 2-hydroxy-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (100.0 mg, 0.285 mmol), and pyridin-2-amine (54 mg, 0.57 mmol) was refluxed in toluene (10 mL) for 24 h. NaH (14 mg, 0.57 mmol) was then added and reflux was continued for another 2 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp, concentrated in vacuo and purified by column chromatography to give 2-hydroxy-N-(pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (55 mg, 48%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O₂: 399.1; found 399.9 [M+H].

This general coupling method could be used to prepare a variety of 2-hydroxy-N-(substituted)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for pyridine-2-amine.

Example 28. Preparation of 6-morpholino-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide Step 1. Synthesis of benzyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate

To a solution of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (1.70 g, 5.53 mmol) in toluene (22 mL) was added diphenylphosphorylamide (1.20 mL, 5.53 mmol), and triethylamine (1.20 mL, 8.29 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 1 h then heated at reflux for 2 h. Benzyl alcohol (630 μl, 6.08 mmol) was added and heating continued for 16 h. The mixture was poured into citric acid (5% aq) and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with sat. aq NaHCO₃, brine, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with pentane/EtOAc (0-100%) to give 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine. (1.07 g, 47% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₅F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 412.11; found: 413 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

Pd/C 10 wt % (200 mg) was added to a degassed solution of benzyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate (1.07 g, 2.59 mmol) in THF/MeOH (40 mL, 1:1). The mixture was hydrogenated under balloon pressure at 25° C. for 16 h. The catalyst was removed by filtration and the mixture concentrated. The crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (0-5%) to give 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (651 mg, 90% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₉F₃N₄ (m/z): 278.08; found: 279 [M+H].

Step 3. Synthesis of 5-methyl-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide (Compound 219)

HATU (109 mg, 0.0.29 mmol) was added to a solution of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (50.0 mg, 0.18 mmol), 5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxylic acid (37.0 mg, 0.27 mmol), and DIEA (78 μl, 0.44 mmol) in DMAC (7 mL) The mixture was stirred at 60° C. for 3 h. H₂O (45 mL) was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O, and dried under vacuum. The crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (0-5%). The product was further purified by recrystallization from CH₃CN to give 5-methyl-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide (55.0 mg, 77% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₃F₃N₆O (m/z): 398.11; found: 399 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(2-trifluromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid moiety for 5-methylpyrazine-2-carboxylic acid.

Example 29. Preparation of 6-hydroxy-N-(6-(2-trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrimidine-4-carboxamide

HATU (203.0 mg, 0.53 mmol) was added to a solution of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (93.0 mg, 0.33 mmol), 6-hydroxypyrimidine-4-carboxylic acid (70.0 mg, 0.50 mmol), and pyridine (81 μl, 1.00 mmol) in CH₃CN (15 mL). The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 72 h. H₂O was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration rinsed with H₂O and dried under vacuum. The crude residue was recrystallized from CH₃CN to give 6-hydroxy-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrimidine-4-carboxamide (73.0 mg, 55% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₁F₃N₆O₂ (m/z): 400.09; found: 401 [M+H].

Example 30. Preparation of (S)-6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide hydrochloride Step 1. Synthesis of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide

HATU (200.0 mg, 0.0.53 mmol) was added to a solution of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (91.0 mg, 0.33 mmol), (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carboxylic acid (125.0 mg, 0.49 mmol), and N,N-diisopropylethylamine (DIPEA) (150 μl, 0.82 mmol) in dimethylacetamide (DMAC) (6 mL). The mixture was stirred at 80° C. for 16 h. H₂O was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O, and dried under vacuum. The crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (0-5%) to give (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide (113.0 mg, 67% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₂₁F₃N₆O₄ (m/z): 514.16; found: 515 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)-6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide hydrochloride

3N HCl (100 mL, 0.30 mmol) was added to a suspension of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide (113.0 mg, 0.22 mmol) in EtOH (10 mL). The mixture was heated at 60° C. until the mixture became homogenous then stirred at room temp for 16 h. The mixture was concentrated and the crude residue was recrystallized from CH₃CN to give (S)-6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-N-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide hydrochloride (87.0 mg, 78% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₇F₃N₆O₄ (m/z): 474.13; found: 475 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure followed by acid deprotection could be used to prepare a variety of (6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl) substituted carboxamides by substituting the appropriate acid moiety for (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carboxylic acid in step 1.

Example 31. Preparation of N-(2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide Step 1. Synthesis of 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

To a solution of 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (3.50 g, 10.89 mmol) in DMF (100 mL) was added diphenylphosphorylamide (4.50 g, 16.34 mmol), and triethylamine (2.20 g, 21.79 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 1.5 h. H₂O (2 mL) was added and the mixture was heated to 100° C. for 1 h. The mixture was poured into cold H₂O (250 mL) and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration to afford 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine. (2.0 g, 63% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁₁F₃N₄ (m/z): 292.09.

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) and N-(2-methyl-6-(2-chlorophenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-amines by starting with the appropriately substituted carboxylic acid moiety.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide

A solution of 2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (75.0 mg, 0.26 mmol), picolinic acid (32.0 mg, 0.26 mmol), DIPEA (99.0 mg, 0.77 mmol) and HATU (124.0 mg, 0.51 mmol) in DMF (8 mL) was stirred at 60° C. for 12 h. H₂O was added (30 mL) and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration and washed with MeOH to give N-(2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (38.0 mg, 37%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₄F₃N₅O (m/z): 397.12; found: 398 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(2-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl), N-(2-methyl-6-(2-chlorophenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]substituted amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid for picolinic acid. In the case which includes a glycerol moiety, an extra deprotection step is required (see step 2 of the previous preparation).

Example 32. Preparation of N-(8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (Compound 407) Step 1. Synthesis of 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

To a solution of 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (3.0 g, 9.34 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) was added diphenylphosphorylamide (3.85 g, 14.01 mmol), and triethylamine (1.42 g, 14.01 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 10 h. H₂O (0.2 mL) was added and stirring continued 24 h. The mixture was poured into 25% aq NaOH, and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to afford 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine. (1.50 g, 55% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁F₃N₄ (m/z): 292.09.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide

A solution of 8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (100.0 mg, 0.34 mmol), picolinic acid (63.0 mg, 0.51 mmol), DIPEA (88.0 mg, 0.68 mmol) and HATU (260.0 mg, 0.68 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was stirred at 70° C. for 16 h and H₂O was added. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(8-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (55.0 mg, 41%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₄F₃N₅O (m/z): 397.12; found: 398 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-substituted-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid for picolinic acid. In cases where this carboxylic acid contains a glycerol moiety, an extra deprotection step is required (as previously shown).

Example 33. Preparation of N-(7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (Compound 441) Step 1. Synthesis of 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

To a solution of 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (1.5 g, 4.67 mmol) in DMF (10 mL) was added diphenylphosphorylamide (1.93 g, 7.00 mmol), and triethylamine (709.0 mg, 7.00 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 10 h. H₂O (0.15 mL) was added and the mixture was stirred at room temp for 24 h. The mixture was poured into 25% aq NaOH, and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to afford 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (650.0 mg, 48% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁F₃N₄ (m/z): 292.09.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide

A solution of 7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (50.0 mg, 0.17 mmol), picolinic acid (32.0 mg, 0.26 mmol), DIPEA (44.0 mg, 0.34 mmol) and HATU (130.0 mg, 0.34 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was stirred at 70° C. for 16 h. H₂O was added and the resulting ppt was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (45.0 mg, 66%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₄F₃N₅O (m/z): 397.12; found: 398 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety N-(7-methyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid for picolinic acid.

Example 34. Preparation of 6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-N-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (Compound 422) Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate

7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (420.0 mg, 1.25 mmol) was suspended in t-BuOH (2.6 mL) and toluene (2.6 mL). Triethylamine (0.58 mL, 4.13 mmol) was added, followed by dropwise addition of diphenylphosphorylamide (0.45 mL, 2.09 mmol). The mixture was warmed to 65° C. for 1 h, then heated to reflux for 17 h. The reaction was cooled and concentrated, and the residue suspended in EtOAc (50 mL). The organic layer was washed with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (25 mL) and brine (25 mL), dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. Purification by silica gel column chromatography (0-100% EtOAc/pentane) gave tert-butyl 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate (280.0 mg, 55%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₂₁F₃N₄O₂: 406.16; found: 407 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

Tert-butyl 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate (280.0 mg, 0.69 mmol) was dissolved in CH₂Cl₂ (2.0 mL). Trifluoroacetic acid (1.0 mL) was added, and the reaction was allowed to stir for 2 h. The mixture was concentrated and water (5 mL) and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (5 mL) were added. The aqueous mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL), and the combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The residue was triturated with pentane, and the solid was dried under vacuum to give 7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (182.0 mg, 86%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₃F₃N₄: 306.11; found: 307 [M+H].

Step 3. Synthesis of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-N-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide

7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (45.0 mg, 0.15 mmol) and 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid (38.0 mg, 0.15 mmol) were coupled according to the general amide coupling procedure to give 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-N-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (60.0 mg, 75%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₇H₂₆F₃N₅O₄: 541.19; found: 542 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of substituted-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid for 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid.

Step 4. Synthesis of 6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-N-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide

6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-N-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl) phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (60.0 mg, 0.11 mmol) was dissolved in THF (2.4 mL). Concentrated HCl (aq.) (0.04 mL, 0.44 mmol) was added and the reaction was allowed to stir at room temp for 6 h. Water (5 mL) and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (5 mL) were added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×20 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The crude product was triturated with minimal CH₂Cl₂ in Et₂O, the suspension filtered and the solid washed with Et₂O. The solid was dried under vacuum to give 6-(2,3-dihydroxypropoxy)-N-(7,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)picolinamide (30.0 mg, 54%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₂₂F₃N₅O₄: 501.16; found: 502 [M+H].

Example 35. Preparation of N-(2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-methoxypicolinamide (Compound 589) Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate

To 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (500.0 mg, 1.49 mmol) suspended in 1:1 t-BuOH/toluene (6.4 mL) was added triethylamine (0.686 mL, 4.92 mmol), followed by dropwise addition of diphenylphosphorylamide (0.537 mL, 2.49 mmol) over 15 min. The mixture was warmed to 55° C. for 2 h, then heated to reflux for 19 h, followed by cooling and concentration, resuspension in EtOAc and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃. The layers were separated and the aqueous layer was washed with EtOAc (3×50 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with anhydrous Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. Purification by silica gel column chromatography (0-100% gradient EtOAc in pentane) gave tert-butyl 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate (0.22 g, 36%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₂₁F₃N₄O₂: 406.16.

Step 2. Synthesis of 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

Tert-butyl 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-ylcarbamate (220.0 mg, 0.54 mmol) was dissolved in CH₂Cl₂ (1.6 mL). Trifluoroacetic acid (0.784 mL) was added and the mixture was allowed to stir at room temp for 2.5 h. The mixture was concentrated and water (10 mL) was added, as well as saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (10 mL). Extraction with EtOAc (3×20 mL), washing with brine, drying with anhydrous Na₂SO₄, filtration and concentration gave crude product. Trituration with pentane (5×10 mL) and vacuum drying gave 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (0.158 g, 95%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₃F₃N₄: 306.11; found: 307.1 [M+H].

Step 3. Synthesis of N-(2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-methoxypicolinamide

6-methoxypicolinic acid (40.0 mg, 0.26 mmol) was dissolved in dimethylformamide (1.0 mL). HATU (147.0 mg, 0.39 mmol) was added, followed by diisopropylethylamine (0.18 mL, 1.03 mmol). 2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (79.0 mg, 0.26 mmol) was dissolved in 2.1 mL dimethylformamide and added to the reaction mixture, which was then warmed to 50° C. for 4 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp and saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (4 mL) and water (4 mL) were added. An orange precipitate formed, and the mixture was filtered through a glass frit. The solid was washed with water and dried under vacuum, followed by purification by silica gel column chromatography (0-10% gradient MeOH in CH₂Cl₂) to give N-(2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-methoxypicolinamide (24.0 mg, 21%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₁₈F₃N₄O₂: 441.14; found: 442.1 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare N-(2,8-dimethyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-hydroxypicolinamide.

Example 36. Preparation of (S)—N-(6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-methylpicolinamide (Compound 565) Step 1. Synthesis of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine

To a solution of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (600.0 mg, 1.71 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) was added diphenylphosphorylamide (707.0 mg, 2.57 mmol), and triethylamine (346.0 mg, 3.42 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 1 h. H₂O (1 mL) was added and the mixture was heated at 70° C. for 1 h. The mixture was poured into 25% aq NaOH, and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to afford (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (250.0 mg, 66% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₂FN₅ (m/z): 221.11.

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)—N-(6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-methylpicolinamide

A solution of (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-amine (44.0 mg, 0.20 mmol), 6-methylpicolinic acid (33.0 mg, 0.24 mmol), DIPEA (51.0 mg, 0.40 mmol), and HATU in DMF (8 mL) was heated at 60° C. for 3 h. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to afford (S)—N-(6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl)-6-methylpicolinamide (30 mg, 44% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₇FN₆O (m/z): 340.14; found: 341 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazin-3-yl) amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid moiety for 6-methylpicolinic acid.

Example 37. Preparation of N-(pyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 240) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

Cs₂CO₃ (64.20 g, 197.20 mmol) was added to a solution of ethyl 5-amino-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate (20.40 g, 131.40 mmol) and ethyl-3-ethoxyacrylate (28.6 mL, 197.20 mmol) in DMF (250 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at 110° C. for 16 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp and the pH was adjusted to 4 by the addition of AcOH (80 mL). The mixture was concentrated in vacuo and the residue partitioned between CH₂Cl₂/H₂O (1000 mL, 1:1). The organic layer was separated and the aqueous layer was extracted with CH₂Cl₂ (3×500 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated. The crude residue was suspended in EtOH (300 mL) and heated to boiling. After cooling to room temperature the solid was collected by filtration, rinsed with EtOH, then Et₂O and dried under vacuum to give ethyl 5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (25.16 g, 92%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₉N₃O₃ (m/z): 207.06; found: 208 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (5.70 g, 27.52 mmol) in phosphoryl trichloride (50 mL) was heated at 120° C. for 4 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuo. The crude residue was partitioned between CH₂Cl₂ and iced, sat. aq NaHCO₃. The organic phase was separated and washed with brine, dried and concentrated to give ethyl 5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (5.40 g, 94% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₈ClN₃O₂ (m/z): 225.03.

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

Nitrogen was bubbled through a solution of ethyl 5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (5.40 g, 23.94 mmol) in dioxane/EtOH/H₂O (130 mL, 20:3:3). 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (6.80 g, 35.90 mmol), Pd(PPh₃)₄ (2.80 g, 2.39 mmol), and Cs₂CO₃ (15.60 g, 47.88 mmol) were added and the reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 2 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp, poured into EtOAc (300 mL) washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄), and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with pentane/EtOAc (0-100%) to give ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (6.30 g, 78% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₂ (m/z): 335.09; found: 336 [M+H].

Step 4. Synthesis of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid

A solution of LiOH (902.0 mg, 37.60 mmol) in H₂O (30 mL) was added to a solution of ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (6.30 g, 18.80 mmol) in THF (75 mL) and MeOH (20 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 16 h. The pH was adjusted to 3 by the addition of 3N HCl (13 mL). The mixture was poured into brine, extracted with EtOAc, dried and concentrated. The crude residue was recrystallized from EtOH (70 mL) to give 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (4.20 g, 73% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₈F₃N₃O₂ (m/z): 307.06; found: 308 [M+H].

Step 5. Synthesis of N-(pyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide

4-aminopyridine (122 mg, 1.30 mmol) was added to a solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (100.0 mg, 0.33 mmol), pyridine (105 μl, 1.30 mmol) and HATU (149.0 mg, 0.39 mmol) in CH₃CN (15 mL), and the reaction was heated at reflux for 72 h. H₂O was added and the resulting precipitate was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O, and dried under vacuum. The crude residue was purified by recrystallization from CH₃CN to give N-(pyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (91.0 mg, 73% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O (m/z): 383.10; found: 384 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare N-(pyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(pyridazin-3-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide and N-(2-methylpyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 38. Preparation of N-(pyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 265)

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (60.0 mg, 0.33 mmol), 2-aminopyridine (40.0 mg, 0.42 mmol), DIEA (84.0 mg, 0.65 mmol) and HATU (186.0 mg, 0.49 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was stirred at 60° C. for 16 h. H₂O was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O, and dried under vacuum. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(pyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazzolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (65.0 mg, 52%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O (m/z): 383.10; found: 384 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(substituted)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) and N-(substituted)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl) pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamides by starting with the appropriate carboxylic acid and substituting the appropriate amine for 2-aminopyridine.

Example 39. Preparation of N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 533)

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic (200.0 mg, 0.62 mmol), 4-aminopyrimidine (71.0 mg, 0.74 mmol), NaH (15.0 mg, 0.62 mmol) and HATU (235.0 mg, 0.62 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was stirred at 70° C. for 16 h. H₂O was added and the crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (20.0 mg, 8% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₁F₃N₆O₂ (m/z): 400.09; found: 401 [M+H].

Example 40. Preparation of N-(5-methylpyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 723)

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (60.0 mg, 0.20 mmol), 5-methylpyrazin-2-amine (36.0 mg, 0.24 mmol), B(OH)₃ (36.0 mg, 0.60 mmol) in 1,3,5-trimethylbenzene (3 mL) was stirred at 200° C. for 48 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated and the residue was purified by preparative TLC eluting with pentane/EtOAc (2:3) to give N-(5-methylpyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide. (13.0 mg, 17% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₃F₃N₆O (m/z): 398.11; found: 399 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare N-(3,5-difluoropyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2,6-dimethylpyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(5-fluoropyridin-3-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(3,5-dimethylpyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(3,5-difluoropyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(3,5-dimethylpyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide and N-(3-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 41. Preparation of N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 266) Step 1. Synthesis of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonyl chloride

Oxalyl chloride (186.0 mg, 1.47 mmol) was added to a solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (150.0 mg, 0.49 mmol) in CH₂CL₂ (5 mL) followed by DMF (3 drops). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 8 h then concentrated to dryness to give crude 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonyl chloride used without further purification. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₇ClF₃N₃O (m/z): 325.02.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonyl chloride (160.0 mg, 0.49 mmol) and 2-aminopyrimidine (60.0 mg, 0.64 mmol) in pyridine (5 mL) was stirred for 16 h at 25° C. The reaction mixture was poured into H₂O and the mixture was concentrated. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (40.0 mg, 21% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₁F₃N₆O (m/z): 384.09; found: 385 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare N-(pyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-hydroxypyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(4-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(4,6-dimethylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2,6-dimethylpyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2,6-dimethylpyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(thiazol-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(5-methylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(4-methylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(3-fluoropyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(5-fluoropyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(pyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide and N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 42. Preparation of N-(6-hydroxypyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 485)

Chlorotrimethylsilane (32.0 mg, 0.29 mmol) was added to a solution of N-(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (60.0 mg, 0.15 mmol) and potassium iodide (48.0 mg, 0.29 mmol) in CH₃CN (10 mL) at room temp. The mixture was heated at 80° C. for 2 h. Sat. aq NaHCO₃ (50 mL) was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with EtOH and dried to give N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (35.0 mg, 48% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O₂ (m/z): 399.09; found: 400 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare N-(6-hydroxypyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-hydroxypyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-hydroxypyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-hydroxypyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, 5-hydroxy-N-(5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)pyrazine-2-carboxamide and N-(2-hydroxypyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 43. Preparation of N-(5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)picolinamide Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-ylcarbamate

Diphenylphosphoryl azide (674.0 mg, 2.45 mmol) was added to a solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (500.0 mg, 1.63 mmol) and triethylamine (329.0 mg, 3.26 mmol) in toluene (10 mL). The mixture was stirred for 1 h at 25° C. then heated at reflux for 2 h. tert-Butyl alcohol (1.22 g, 16.30 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at reflux for 3 h. After cooling to room temp, the reaction mixture was poured into H₂O. The resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O and dried. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography eluting with pentane/EtOAc (10%) to give tert-butyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-ylcarbamate (270.0 mg, 44% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₇F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 378.13.

Step 2. Synthesis of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-amine hydrochloride

Tert-butyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-ylcarbamate (100.0 mg, 0.26 mmol) was dissolved in 3M HCl/dioxane (2 mL, 6.0 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 16 h. The mixture was concentrated to give 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-amine hydrochloride (90.0 mg, 100% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₉F₃N₄ (m/z): 278.08.

Step 3. Synthesis of N-(5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)picolinamide

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-amine (60.0 mg, 0.22 mmol), picolinic acid (27.0 mg, 0.22 mmol), DIPEA (83.0 mg, 0.65 mmol) and HATU (164.0 mg, 0.43 mmol) in DMF (8 mL) was stirred at 60° C. for 16 h. H₂O (30 mL) was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration and rinsed with MeOH to give N-(5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)picolinamide (60.0 mg, 73%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O (m/z): 383.10; found: 384 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl) and N-(5-(2-(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid for picolinic acid.

Example 44. Preparation of N-(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 551) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 2-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

Sodium ethoxide (4.02 g, 59.10 mmol) was added to a solution of ethyl 5-amino-3-methyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carboxylate (10.0 g, 59.10 mmol) and 1,3-dimethyluracil (8.28 g, 59.10 mmol) in EtOH (50 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at 140° C. for 2 h. After cooling to room temp the solid was collected by filtration. The solid was dissolved in H₂O (100 mL) and the pH was adjusted to 7. The resulting precipitate was collected by filtration and dried under vacuum to give ethyl 2-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (10.0 g, 76% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₁N₃O₃ (m/z): 221.08.

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 2-methyl-5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 2-methyl-5-oxo-4,5-dihydropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (10.0 g, 45.20 mmol) in phosphoryl trichloride (50 mL) was heated at reflux for 3 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated in vacuo. The crude residue was dissolved in H₂O and the pH was adjusted to 7. The resulting precipitate was collected by filtration and dried under vacuum to give ethyl 2-methyl-5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (10.00 g, 92% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₀ClN₃O₂ (m/z): 239.05.

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

A solution of ethyl 2-methyl-5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (9.06 g, 37.70 mmol) 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (14.25 g, 75.00 mmol), Pd(dppfCl₂ (1.51 g, 2.10 mmol), and K₂CO₃ (10.35 g, 75.00 mmol) in degassed dimethoxyethane (120 mL) was heated at 100° C. for 12 h. The mixture was concentrated and purified by flash chromatography to give ethyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (11.70 g, 90% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₄F₃N₃O₂ (m/z): 349.10.

Step 4. Synthesis of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid

LiOH (14.30 mg, 340.0 mmol) was added to a solution of ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (11.70 g, 34.00 mmol) in THF/H₂O (100 mL, 1:1). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 60 h. The mixture was concentrated and the pH was adjusted to 3 by the addition of 1N HCl. The resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O and dried to give 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (5.00 g, 46% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₀F₃N₃O₂ (m/z): 321.07.

Step 5. Synthesis of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonyl chloride

Oxalyl chloride (814 μl, 9.34 mmol) was added to a suspension of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (1.0 g, 3.11 mmol) in CH₂CL₂ (20 mL) followed by DMF (3 drops). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 2 h then concentrated to dryness to give crude 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonyl chloride used without further purification (1.10 g, 100% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₉ClF₃N₃O (m/z): 339.04.

Step 6. Synthesis of N-(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonyl chloride (254.0 mg, 0.75 mmol) and 6-methoxypyridine-2-amine (136.0 mg, 1.10 mmol) in pyridine (10 mL) was stirred for 2 h at 50° C. The reaction mixture was poured into H₂O and the solid was collected by filtration. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (85.0 mg, 27% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₆F₃N₅O₂ (m/z): 427.13; found: 428 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare 2-methyl-N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, 2-methyl-N-(pyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, 2-methyl-N-(pyridin-3-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, 2-methyl-N-(6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, 2-methyl-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide and 2-methyl-N-(pyridin-4-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 45. Preparation of N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 793) Step 1. Synthesis of 4-nitrophenyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

EDCI (720.0 mg, 3.75 mmol) was added to a solution of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (800.0 mg, 2.50 mmol) and DMAP (460.0 mg, 3.75 mmol) in DMF (10 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at 25° C. for 2 h then 4-nitrophenol (350.0 mg, 2.50 mmol) was added and stirring continued for 18 h. The mixture was diluted with sat. aq Na₂CO₃ (50 mL) and extracted with EtOAc (2×30 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with sat. aq Na₂CO₃ (3×20 mL), brine, and concentrated. The crude residue was triturated with pentane/EtOAc (5:1) to give 4-nitrophenyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate which (960.0 mg, 87% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₃F₃N₄O₄ (m/z): 442.09.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide

Sodium hydride (11.0 mg, 0.42 mmol) was added to a solution of 2-methoxypyrimidine-4-amine (35.0 mg, 0.28 mmol) in THF (3 mL) at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 10 min and 4-nitrophenyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (60.0 mg, 0.14 mmol) was added and stirring continued for 30 min. The reaction was quenched by the addition of at. aq NH₄Cl. The mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was washed with sat. aq Na₂CO₃, brine, dried and concentrated. The crude product was triturated with pentane/EtOAc (4:1) to give N-(2-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (21.0 mg, 36% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₅F₃N₆O₂ (m/z): 428.12; found: 429 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare N-(3,5-difluoropyridin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2-hydroxypyridin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethy)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2,6-dimethylpyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-methoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(2-ethoxypyrimidin-4-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide and N-(4,6-dimethylpyrimidin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 46. Preparation of 2-methyl-N-(6-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 628)

A solution of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic (80.0 mg, 0.25 mmol), 6-methyl-2-aminopyridine (54.0 mg, 0.50 mmol), DIEA (223.0 mg, 1.72 mmol) and HATU (189.0 mg, 0.498 mmol) in DMF (3 mL) was stirred at 60° C. for 16 h. H₂O was added. The resulting ppt was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O, and dried to give 2-methyl-N-(6-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (26.0 mg, 25% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₆F₃N₅O (m/z): 411.13; found: 412 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 2-methyl-N-(substituted)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 6-methyl-2-aminopyridine.

Example 47. Preparation of 2-methyl-N-(3-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 722)

B(OH)₃ (46.0 mg, 0.74 mmol) was added to a solution of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic (80.0 mg, 0.25 mmol), and 3-methyl-2-aminopyridine (33.0 mg, 0.30 mmol) in 1,3,5-trimethylbenzene (10 mL). The reaction mixture was heated at 200° C. for 24 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated to dryness and purified by preparative TLC eluting with CH₂Cl₂/EtOAc (1:1) to give 2-methyl-N-(3-methylpyridin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (12.0 mg, 11% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₆F₃N₅O (m/z): 411.13; found: 412 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare 2-methyl-N-(6-methylpyrazin-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide, N-(3,5-dimethylpyrazin-2-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide and N-(5-fluoropyridin-3-yl)-2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide.

Example 48. Preparation of N-(2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)picolinamide (Compound 567) Step 1. Synthesis of benzyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-ylcarbamate

Diphenylphosphoryl azide (1 mL, 4.67 mmol) was added to a solution of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (1.5 g, 4.67 mmol) and triethylamine (967 μl, 7.01 mmol) in toluene (25 mL). The mixture was stirred for 1 h at 25° C. then heated at reflux for 3 h. Benzyl alcohol (532 μl, 5.14 mmol) was added and the mixture was heated at reflux for 16 h. After cooling to room temp, the reaction mixture was poured into sat. aq NH₄Cl and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were washed with brine, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with pentane/EtOAc (20-100%) to give benzyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-ylcarbamate (1.49 g, 75% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₂H₁₇F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 426.13; found: 427 [M+H].

Step 2. Synthesis of 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-amine hydrochloride

Conc. HCl (15 mL) was added to a solution of benzyl 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-ylcarbamate (1.49 g, 3.49 mmol) in EtOH (25 mL). The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 2.5 h. After cooling to room temp, the mixture was concentrated to dryness and chased with toluene to give 2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-amine hydrochloride (1.15 g, 100% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁₁F₃N₄ (m/z): 292.09; found: 293 [M+H].

Step 3. Synthesis of N-(2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)picolinamide

A solution of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-amine (50.0 mg, 0.16 mmol), picolinic acid (32.0 mg, 0.26 mmol), DIPEA (44.0 mg, 0.34 mmol) and HATU (129.0 mg, 0.34 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) was stirred at 50° C. for 2 h. H₂O was added and the resulting ppt was collected by filtration. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give N-(2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)picolinamide (19.0 mg, 30% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₀H₁₄F₃N₅O (m/z): 397.12; found: 398 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(2-methyl-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)amides by substituting the appropriate carboxylic acid for picolinic acid.

Example 49. Preparation of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide (Compound 451) Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 5-amino-1H-imidazole-4-carboxylate

A mixture of 5-amino-1H-imidazole-4-carboxamide (30.0 g, 238 mmol) and sulfuric acid (70.0 g, 714 mmol) in ethanol (300 mL) was heated to 120° C. in a sealed tube for 24 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to room temp, and the solvent was removed in vacuo. The residue was purified via silica gel column chromatography to give ethyl 5-amino-1H-imidazole-4-carboxylate (20.0 g, 54%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₉N₃O₂: 155.07.

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 2-oxo-1,2-dihydroimidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate

A solution of ethyl 5-amino-1H-imidazole-4-carboxylate (10.0 g, 64.5 mmol), 2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yl 3-(2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-1-yloxy)acrylate (20.01 g, 70.9 mmol), and triethylamine (13.02 g, 129 mmol) in anhydrous acetonitrile (200 mL) was heated to 50° C. for 16 h. After concentration in vacuo, the residue was treated with MeOH (100 mL), and the mixture was stirred at 60° C. for 30 min. The mixture was filtered, and the filtrate was concentrated and purified via silica gel column chromatography (MeOH/CHCl₃, 4:96 v/v) to give ethyl 2-oxo-1,2-dihydroimidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate (5.0 g, 37.4%) as a white solid. MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₉N₃O₂: 207.06.

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 2-chloroimidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 2-oxo-1,2-dihydroimidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate (8.0 g, 38.6 mmol) and phosphoryl trichloride (5.92 g, 38.6 mmol) were heated to 120° C. for 1 h, then cooled to room temp. After concentration in vacuo, water was added (300 mL) and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The mixture was concentrated and purified to give ethyl 2-chloroimidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate (4.5 g, 52%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₈ClN₃O₂: 225.03.

Step 4. Synthesis of ethyl 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate

A mixture of ethyl 2-chloroimidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate (2.0 g, 8.86 mmol), 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenylboronic acid (3.03 g, 15.96 mmol), Pd(PPh₃)₄ (1.02 g, 0.89 mmol) and Cs₂CO₃ (5.78 g, 17.73 mmol) in dioxane (50 mL), was heated at 100° C. for 1 h, then cooled to room temp. The mixture was poured into cold water (200 mL) and stirred. The precipitate was collected by filtration to give ethyl 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate (0.8 g, 27%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₂F₃N₃O₂: 335.09.

Step 5. Synthesis of 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylic acid

To a mixture of ethyl 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylate (1.5 g, 4.47 mmol) and potassium hydroxide (2.51 g, 44.7 mmol) in water (50 mL) was added MeOH (20 mL). The reaction was heated to reflux for 1 h, then cooled to room temp. The mixture was washed with EtOAc (2×50 mL) and the organics discarded. The aqueous phase was adjusted to pH 4, after which precipitation occurred. The precipitate was collected by filtration to give 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylic acid (1.0 g, 73%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₈F₃N₃O₂: 307.06.

Step 6. Synthesis of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide

To a solution of 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylic acid (70.0 mg, 0.228 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) was added DMF (1 drop) and oxalyl dichloride (87.0 mg, 0.684 mmol). The mixture was stirred for 0.5 h and concentrated in vacuo. To the residue was added pyridine (8 mL) and pyridin-3-amine (32.2 mg, 0.342 mmol) at room temp. After 2 h, water was added (20 mL) and the mixture stirred for 1 h. The solid was collected by filtration, washed and dried to give N-(pyridin-3-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide (24.0 mg, 28%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O: 383.10.

This general procedure could be used to prepare N-(pyridin-2-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide, N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide, N-(pyrimidin-2-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide and N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)-2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxamide.

Example 50. Preparation of N-(2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-yl)picolinamide (Compound 455) Step 1. Synthesis of 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-amine

To a mixture of 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-8-carboxylic acid (300.0 mg, 0.976 mmol) and triethylamine (197.0 mg, 1.953 mmol) in DMF (30 mL) was added diphenylphosphoryl azide (DPPA) (537.0 mg, 1.953 mmol) at room temp. The mixture was stirred for 1 h, then water (1 mL) was added and the mixture was heated to 100° C. followed by cooling. The reaction mixture was poured into cold water (250 mL) and stirred. The precipitate that formed was collected by filtration, washed with water, and dried in vacuo to give 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-amine (50.0 mg, 18%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₉F₃N₄: 278.08.

Step 2. Synthesis of N-(2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-yl)picolinamide

A mixture of 2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-amine (25.0 mg, 0.90 mmol), picolinic acid (16.6 mg, 0.135 mmol), HATU (43.3 mg, 0.180 mmol) and DIEA (34.8 mg, 0.270 mmol) in DMF (5 mL) was heated to 60° C. for 12 h. The mixture was poured into cold water (30 mL) and stirred. The precipitate that formed was collected by filtration, washed with methanol, and dried in vacuo to give N-(2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-yl)picolinamide (19.0 mg, 55%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₉H₁₂F₃N₅O: 383.10; found: 383.98 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be utilized to prepare 6-morpholino-N-(2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-yl)picolinamide, N-(2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-yl)nicotinamide and N-(2-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-8-yl)pyrimidine-4-carboxamide.

Example 51.Synthesis of N-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 73) Step 1. Synthesis of 3-chloro-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazine

To a mixture of 3, 6-dichloropyridazine (6.0 g, 40.3 mmol) and 2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl-boronic acid (9.18 g, 48.3 mmol) were added K₂CO₃ (8.35 g, 60.4 mmol) and Pd(PPh₃)₄ (2.33 g, 2.01 mmol). The mixture was stirred in dioxane:H₂O (4:1) at 120° C. in a microwave for about 0.5 h. After cooling to room temp, the reaction was diluted with EtOAc and washed with H₂O. The combined organic layers were dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered and evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure. The crude material was purified by vacuum distillation to afford 3-chloro-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazine (2.8 g, 26.9%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₆ClF₃N₂: 258.02.

Step 2. Synthesis of 3-hydrazinyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazine

To a solution of 3-chloro-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazine (3.0 g, 11.60 mmol) in EtOH was added hydrazine hydrate (13.66 g, 232 mmol). The mixture was stirred at 90° C. for about 24 h. Upon cooling to room temp, the reaction was quenched with H₂O and extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The combined organic layers were dried over Na₂SO₄, filtered and evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure. The crude material was purified by vacuum distillation to afford 3-hydrazinyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazine (2.5 g, 85%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₉F₃N₄: 254.1.

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-ylamino)-2-oxoacetyl chloride

6-(Azetidin-1-yl) pyridin-2-amine (0.1 g, 0.67 mmol) was dissolved in (COCl)₂ (2.55 g, 20.11 mmol). The reaction was heated to 50° C. for 1 h, and then cooled to room temp and the volatiles were removed under reduced pressure. Remaining solid was dried under vacuum to provide 2-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-ylamino)-2-oxoacetyl chloride (0.26 g, 81%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₀ClN₃O₂: 239.1.

Step 4. Synthesis of N-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-2-oxo-2-(2-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-yl)hydrazinyl)acetamide

2-(6-(Azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-ylamino)-2-oxoacetyl chloride (140.0 mg, 0.58 mmol) was dissolved in methylene chloride (15 mL). 3-hydrazinyl-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazine (149.0 mg, 0.58 mmol), and triethylamine (70.9 mg, 0.701 mmol) were then added. The reaction was stirred at 25° C. for 16 h. Upon completion, the reaction was poured into NaHCO₃ solution, and extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The combined organic layers were dried with Na₂SO₄, concentrated, and purified by chromatography to give N-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-2-oxo-2-(2-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-yl)hydrazinyl)acetamide (180.0 mg, 67.4%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₈F₃N₇O₂: 457.2.

Step 5. Synthesis of N-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide

N-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-2-oxo-2-(2-(6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)pyridazin-3-yl)hydrazinyl)acetamide (100.0 mg, 0.22 mmol) was dissolved in xylene (15 mL), and the reaction was heated in a microwave at 150° C. for 6 h. Upon cooling to room temp, the reaction was poured into H₂O, and extracted with DCM. The combined organic layers were dried with Na₂SO₄, the solvent was removed in vacuo and residue was purified by chromatography to give N-(6-(azetidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (6.0 mg, 6.25%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₁H₁₆F₃N₇O: 439.1; found: 440.0 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare N-(6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide, N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide and 6-(2-(difluoromethyl)phenyl)-N-(2-morpholinopyridin-4-yl)-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide.

Example 52. Preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carbaldehyde

6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carbaldehyde was prepared using the same method described above as for the preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinaldehyde.

Example 53. Preparation of 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 5-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)picolinate)

To a solution of 5-aminopyridiencarboxylic acid (8.4 g, 60.8 mmol) in ethanol (100 mL) was added SOCl₂ (14.5 g, 120 mmol) at 0° C. The mixture was refluxed for 12 h. The solvent was removed and saturated Na₂CO₃ solution was added to adjust pH=9 and filtrated to give a solid. The solid was dried in vacuo to give ethyl 5-aminopicolinate (7.5 g, 75%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₀N₂O₂ (m/z): 166.18.

To a solution of ethyl 5-aminopicolinate (7.5 g, 45 mmol) in t-BuOH (60 mL) and acetone (20 mL) was added DMAP (0.10 g, 0.9 mmol) and di-t-butyl dicarbonate (19.6 g, 90 mmol). The reaction was stirred at room temp overnight. The solvent was removed and hexane (150 mL) was added and cooled to −20° C. for 2 h. The mixture was filtered and the solid was dried in vacuo to give ethyl 5-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)picolinate (8.9 g, 53%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₁₈N₂O₄: (m/z) 266.29.

Step 2. Synthesis of tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-3-ylcarbamate

To a stirred solution of ethyl 5-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)picolinate (8.9 g, 24 mmol) in ethyl ether (200 mL) under nitrogen was added LAH (1.8 g, 48 mmol) in ethyl ether (100 mL) over a period of 30 min at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 3 h, water (1 mL) and 10% NaOH solution (2 mL) was added and the mixture was filtered and the filtrate was dried over Na₂SO₄ and concentrated under reduced pressure to give compound tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-3-ylcarbamate (4.2 g, 78%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₃ (m/z): 224.26.

Step 3. Synthesis of tert-butyl 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-ylcarbamate

To a solution of tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-3-ylcarbamate (4.2 g, 18.8 mmol) and DIPEA (7.0 g, 56.4 mmol) in THF (20 mL) was added MsCl (2.8 g, 24.4 mmol) over a period of 30 min at 0° C. and the mixture was stirred for 1 h. The reaction was quenched by adding saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ and extracted with EtOAc (3×60 mL). The combined organic layer was washed with brine and dried over Na₂SO₄. The organic solvent was removed to give compound (5-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)pyridin-2-yl)methyl methanesulfonate (5.5 g) without further purification for next step.

A mixture of (5-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)pyridin-2-yl)methyl methanesulfonate (1.70 g), morpholine (1.0 g, 11.3 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (2.30 g, 16.9 mmol) acetonitrile (30 mL) was stirred at room temperature for 12 h. Water (30 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×30 mL) and dried over MgSO₄, concentrated in vacuo and purified by chromatography on silica gel (petroleum ether: ethyl acetate=1:1 to 1:3) to give tert-butyl 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-ylcarbamate (1.20 g, 71% for two steps). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₂₃N₃O₃ (m/z): 293.36.

Step 4. Synthesis of 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine

To a solution of tert-butyl 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-ylcarbamate (1.20 g, 4.1 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (20 mL) was added TFA (6 mL). The mixture was stirred for 12 h at room temp. The solvent was removed in vacuo and the solid was basified to pH=9 with saturated Na₂CO₃. The mixture was concentrated to dryness and acidified to pH=1, basified to pH=9 and concentrated to dryness. The residue was washed with ethyl acetate (3×25 mL), the combined organic layers were concentrated to give 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine (450.0 mg, 56%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅N₃O (m/z): 193.25; found 194[M+H].

6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-amine

and 2-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-4-amine

were prepared by the same sequence above, starting from 6-aminopicolinic acid and 2-aminopicolinic acid respectively. 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine

6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine

6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-3-amine

and 2-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-4-amine

were prepared by the same sequence above, starting from 6-aminonicotinic acid, 6-aminopicolinic acid, 5-aminopicolinic acid and 4-aminopicolinic acid and reacting the resulting mesylate intermediates with pyrrolidine.

Example 54. Preparation of 6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine

A mixture of 6-chloropyridin-2-amine (19.3 g, 150 mmol), K₂CO₃ (41.7 g, 0.30 mol) and morpholine (38.9 mL, 450 mmol) in DMSO (150 mL) was stirred at 190° C. (oil bath) for 10 h. After cooling to room temp, water (300 mL) was added and extracted with ethyl acetate (4×150 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with water (3×25 mL), dried over Na₂SO₄ and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by silica gel chromatography (10:1 petroleum ether: ethyl acetate) to give 6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine as a white solid (9.0 g, 54.8 mmol). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O (m/z): 179.11; found 180 [M+H].

4-morpholinopyridin-2-amine

5-morpholinopyridin-2-amine

2-morpholinopyridin-3-amine

5-morpholinopyridin-3-amine

6-morpholinopyridin-3-amine

and 2-morpholinopyridin-4-amine

were prepared by the same sequence above, starting from 4-chloropyridin-2-amine, 5-chloropyridin-2-amine, 2-chloropyridin-3-amine, 5-chloropyridin-3-amine, 6-chloropyridin-3-amine and 2-chloropyridin-4-amine respectively. 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine

and 6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-amine

were prepared by the same sequence above, starting from 2-chloropyridin-4-amine and 6-chloropyridin-2-amine respectively and reacting with pyrrolidine.

Example 55. Preparation of 6-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-2-amine

6-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-2-amine was prepared similarly to 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-4-amine above, using 6-chloropyridin-2-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₇F₃N₂O: 192.05.

Example 56. Preparation of 4-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine

4-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine was prepared the same as above, using 4-chloropyrimidin-2 amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₆F₃N₃O: 193.05.

Example 57. Preparation of 4-methyl-6-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine

4-methyl-6-(2,2,2-trifluoromethoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine was prepared the same as above, using 4-chloro-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₈F₃N₃O: 207.06.

Example 58. Preparation of 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using 2-chloropyrimidin-4-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₆F₃N₃O: 193.05.

Example 59. Preparation of 6-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-2-amine

Prepared using the same method as that for 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-4-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₆F₃N₃O: 193.05.

Example 60. Preparation of 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine

NaH (1.15 g, 60% in mineral oil, 28.7 mmol) was added the mixture of 4-chloropyrimidin-2-amine (1.0 g, 7.75 mmol) and solketal (3.07 g, 23.25 mmol) in dioxane (12 mL) solution at 0° C. The temperature was elevated to 120° C. for 15 h. After cooling to room temp, the solids were filtered, filtrate was concentrated and residue purified by column chromatography to give 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine (1.2 g, 69%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅N₃O₃: 225.11.

Example 61. Preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-3-amine

The 2-bromopyridin-4-amine (650.0 mg, 3.76 mmol) was taken up in dioxane (25 mL) along with (2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (3.97 g, 30.1 mmol) and NaH (451.0 mg, 18.78 mmol). The resulting reaction mixture was stirred at reflux for 48 h, concentrated in vacuo and purified by chromatography to give 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-3-amine as a pale yellow solid (260.0 mg, 40%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₃: 224.12; found 224.87 [M+H].

Example 62. Preparation of 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-4-amine

2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-4-amine was prepared using the same method described above using 2-bromopyridin-4-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₃: 224.12.

Example 63. Preparation of 5-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine

5-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine was prepared the same as above, using 5-bromopyrazin-2-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅N₃O₃: 225.11.

Example 64. Preparation of 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)₆-methylpyridin-4-amine Step 1. Synthesis 2-bromo-6-methylpyridine 1-oxide

To a solution of 2-bromo-6-methylpyridine (40.0 g, 233 mmol) in acetic acid (50 mL) was added CH₃CO₃H (175 mL, 233 mmol) maintaining temperature below 50° C. After completion of addition the mixture was stirred at 50° C. for 15 h and then cooled to room temp. Crushed ice was added and the pH was adjusted to 12 with 40% aqueous KOH solution. After extraction with CHCl₃, the combined organic layers were dried over Na₂SO₄, concentrated in vacuo and crude product was purified by silica-gel using EtOAc:Pentane=1:1, then DCM:MeOH=10:1 to give 2-bromo-6-methylpyridine 1-oxide. MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₆BrNO: 188.96.

Step 2. Synthesis of 2-bromo-6-methyl-4-nitropyridine 1-oxide

Flask charged with solid 2-bromo-6-methylpyridine 1-oxide (16.0 g, 85 mmol) was cooled to 0° C. To this fuming nitric acid (80 mL) was added followed by H₂SO₄ (98%, 30 mL). The mixture was stirred at 90° C. for 90 min and then cooled to room temp. Crushed ice was added and the pH was adjusted to 12 with 30% aqueous NaOH solution. The solid was filtered to give 2-bromo-6-methyl-4-nitropyridine 1-oxide (16.0 g, 81%) as a pale yellow solid. MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₅BrN₂O₃: 232.0.

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-bromo-6-methylpyridin-4-amine

A solution of 2-bromo-6-methyl-4-nitropyridine 1-oxide (16.0 g, 68.7 mmol) in acetic acid (300 mL) was treated with powdered iron (25.8 g, 460 mmol), the mixture was slowly heated to 100° C., kept for 2 h at this temperature, then cooled to room temp and filtered. After evaporation of the solvent, the residue was purified by silica-gel using EtOAc: Pet ether=1:1 to give 2-bromo-6-methylpyridin-4-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₆H₇BrN₂: 185.98; found: 186.96 [M+H].

Step 4. 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)₆-methylpyridin-4-amine

2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)₆-methylpyridin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using 2-bromo-6-methylpyridin-4-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₈N₂O₃: 238.13.

Each individual enantiomer was also prepared the same as above.

To make (S)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)₆-methylpyridin-4-amine, (S)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol was used.

To make (R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)₆-methylpyridin-4-amine, (R)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol was used.

Example 65. Preparation of 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine

Solketal (49.5 g, 0.38 mol) was added to a suspension of NaH (15.0 g, 0.38 mol) in THF at 0° C. The resulting mixture was stirred at room temp for 2 h. 4-chloro-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine (18.0 g, 0.125 mol) was added. The reaction was heated at 70° C. for 17 h. After cooling to room temp, H₂O (100 mL) was added. The aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate. Combined organic layers were dried, concentrated and the product was washed with diethyl ether/hexanes (10:1) to afford 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine (19.0 g, 63% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₇N₃O₃: 239.1.

Example 66. Preparation of 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine

This was prepared using the same method as that for 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine except that no solvent was used and heating was at 110° C. for 3 d. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₃: 224.1.

Example 67. Preparation of 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

To a solution of solketal (34.4 g, 260 mmol) in THF (150 mL) was added NaH (10.4 g, 260 mmol) at room temp and the mixture stirred for 1 h. 2-chloro-4-aminopyrimidine (15.0 g, 115 mmol) was then added, and the mixture was stirred at 70° C. for 48 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated and the crude residue was purified by flash chromatography (CH₂Cl₂:MeOH=15:1-10:1) to give 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine (18.2 g, 70% yield) as an oil. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅N₃O₃: 225.11.

Example 68. Preparation of (S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine

(S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine was prepared the same as above, using 6-chloropyrazin-2-amine and (S)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅N₃O₃: 225.11.

Example 69. Preparation of 5-morpholinopyridin-2-amine

5-bromo-2-nitropyridine (1.0 g, 4.93 mmol), morpholine (0.47 g, 5.42 mmol), Bu₄NI (0.09 g, 0.25 mmol), K₂CO₃ (0.75 g, 5.42 mmol) were stirred in DMSO (10 mL) at 80° C. for 30 h. Water was added and the solid separated by filtration was purified by column chromatography to give (4-(6-nitropyridin-3-yl)morpholine).

To a solution of 4-(6-nitropyridin-3-yl)morpholine (0.7 g, 3.35 mmol) in CH₃OH (10 mL) Raney nickel (0.20 g, 3.35 mmol) was added at 25° C. and the mixture was stirred under H₂ balloon for about 12 h. After filtration and concentration of the solvent, 5-morpholinopyridin-3-amine was obtained and was used without further purification. MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O: 179.11.

Example 70. Preparation of 3-morpholinopyridin-2-amine

3-morpholinopyridin-2-amine was prepared from 3-bromo-2-nitropyridine using the same two-step procedure described above.

Example 71. Preparation of 4-morpholinopyridin-3-amine

A solution of 4-chloropyridin-3-amine (0.5 g, 3.89 mmol) and morpholine (0.68 g, 7.78 mmol) in DMAC (10 mL) was heated at 200° C. for 30 h. After cooling to room temp, water was added and the solid was purified by column chromatography to give 4-morpholinopyridin-3-amine. MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O: 179.11.

Example 72. Preparation of 2-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine

To a mixture of 4-amino-2-chloropyrimidine (300.0 mg, 2.3 mmol) in THF (4 mL), DIEA (0.8 mL) was added. The reaction was refluxed for 15 h. After cooling to room temperature, the solvent was evaporated and the solid was taken up in CH₂Cl₁₂. After filtration, the solid was dissolved in CH₂Cl₂+MeOH (1:1) and adsorbed onto silica gel for purification by column chromatography to afford 2-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine (160.0 mg, 36%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₂N₄O: 192.1.

Example 73. Preparation of 6-(ethylamino)pyridin-2-aminium 2,2,2-trifluoroacetate Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl (6-(ethylamino)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate

To a solution of tert-butyl (6-aminopyridin-2-yl)carbamate (209.0 mg, 1.0 mmol) in dichloroethane (3 mL), a solution of acetaldehyde (0.06 mL, 1.0 mmol) in dichloroethane (0.5 mL) was added. After 1 h at room temp the reaction was quenched with saturated NaHCO₃ solution. The aqueous mixture was extracted with dichloromethane (2×50 mL). After concentrating the combined organic layers, the crude product was purified by flash column chromatography (pentane: ethyl acetate=10-30%) to afford tert-butyl (6-(ethylamino)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate (100.0 mg, 42%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₉N₃O₂: 237.2.

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(ethylamino)pyridin-2-aminium 2,2,2-trifluoroacetate

Tert-butyl (6-(ethylamino)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate (200 mg, 0.84 mmol) was taken up in TFA: CH₂Cl₁₂ (1:1, 4 mL) and stirred at room temperature for 2 h. Solvents were evaporated under reduced pressure, the residue was dried on the high vacuum pump upon which 6-(ethylamino)pyridin-2-aminium 2,2,2-trifluoroacetate was obtained as solid (220.0 mg, yield quant.). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₂F₃N₃O₂: 251.1.

Example 74. Preparation of 2-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

NaH (60% in oil, 2.47 g, 61.8 mmol) was washed twice with pentane and dried under vacuum. THF (25 mL) was added, followed by (3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methanol (6.1 mL, 61.8 mmol) dropwise. This was allowed to stir 1 h at room temp before addition of 15 mL more TNF and 4-amino-2-chloropyrimidine (4.0 g, 30.9 mmol). The reaction was heated to reflux for 17 h, cooled and concentrated. Water was added (50 mL), and enough saturated NH₄Cl to bring the pH down to 8. The mixture extracted with EtOAc (3×75 mL), and the combined organics were washed with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ and brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The crude product was purified by silica gel column chromatography (0-10% MeOH/CH₂Cl₂) to give 2-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine (1.84 g, 30%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O₂: 195.10; found: 196 [M+H].

Example 75. Preparation of 4-methyl-6-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine

NaH (60% in oil, 2.23 g, 55.7 mmol) was washed twice with pentane and dried under vacuum. THF (35 mL) was added, followed by (3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methanol (5.5 mL, 55.7 mmol) dropwise. This was allowed to stir 1 h at room temp before addition of 5 mL more THF and 4-chloro-6-methylpyrimidin-2-amine (4.0 g, 27.9 mmol). The reaction was heated to reflux for 17 h, cooled and concentrated. Water was added (50 mL), and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×75 mL), and the combined organics were washed with saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ and brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The crude product was triturated with Et₂O and the white solid was dried under vacuum to give 4-methyl-6-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine (2.42 g, 41%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅N₃O₂: 209.12; found: 210 [M+H].

Example 76. Preparation of 6-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine

NaH (60% in oil, 1.24 g, 30.9 mmol) was washed twice with pentane and dried under vacuum. Dioxane (50 mL) was added, followed by (3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methanol (3.0 mL, 30.9 mmol) dropwise. This was allowed to stir 2 h at room temp before addition of 6-chloropyrazin-2-amine (2.0 g, 15.4 mmol). The reaction was heated to reflux for 16 h, cooled and concentrated. Water was added (50 mL), and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc (3×75 mL), and the combined organics were washed with water and brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated. The crude product was purified by silica gel column chromatography (0-10% MeOH/CH₂Cl₂) to give 6-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine (3.02 g, quant.). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O₂: 195.10; found: 196 [M+H].

Example 77. Preparation of 2-(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

NaH (60% in oil, 126.0 mg, 3.15 mmol) was washed twice with pentane and dried under vacuum. THF (3.0 mL) was added, followed by tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-ol (0.3 mL, 3.15 mmol) dropwise over 5 min. The mixture was allowed to stir at room temp for 1 h. 2-chloro-4-aminopyrimidine (314.0 mg, 2.43 mmol) was added and the reaction was heated to reflux for 18 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp and water was added (5 mL), along with enough saturated aqueous NH₄Cl to bring the pH down to 8. Minimal EtOAc was added (2 mL), but there was a precipitate between layers so the entire mixture was filtered and the solid was washed with water. The solid was dried under vacuum to give clean 2-(tetrahydro-2H-pyran-4-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine (220.0 mg, 46%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O₂: 195.10; found: 196 [M+H].

Example 78. Preparation of (R)-2-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

The reaction was run similarly to the above, with NaH (60% in oil, 227.0 mg, 5.67 mmol), THF (5.4 mL), (R)-tetrahydrofuran-3-ol (0.456 mL, 5.67 mmol), and 2-chloro-4-aminopyrimidine (566.0 mg, 4.36 mmol) for 19 h. Water and EtOAc were added (10 mL each), along with enough saturated aqueous NH₄Cl to bring the pH down to 8 (about 2 mL). The layers were separated and the aqueous layer was washed twice more with EtOAc (2×10 mL). The combined organics were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered and concentrated to give 748.0 mg of crude product. This was triturated with Et₂O and filtered. The solid was washed with Et₂O and dried under vacuum to give (R)-2-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine (419 mg, 53%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₁N₃O₂: 181.09; found: 182 [M+H].

Example 79. Preparation of (S)-2-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

(S)-2-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using (S)-tetrahydrofuran-3-ol. 53% yield. MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₁N₃O₂: 181.09; found: 182 [M+H].

Example 80. Preparation of 2-isopropoxypyrimidin-4-amine

2-isopropoxypyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using isopropanol. 23% yield. MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₁₁N₃O: 153.09; found: 154 [M+H].

Example 81. Preparation of 2-(2-methoxyethoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

2-(2-methoxyethoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using 2-methoxyethanol. 73% yield. MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₁₁N₃O₂: 169.09; found: 170 [M+H].

Example 82. Preparation of 6-(2-methoxyethoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

6-(2-methoxyethoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using 4-amino-6-chloropyrimidine. 82% yield. MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₁₁N₃O₂: 169.09; found: 170 [M+H].

Example 83. Preparation of (R)-6-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

(R)-6-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using (R)-tetrahydrofuran-3-ol. 45% yield. MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₁N₃O₂: 181.09; found: 182 [M+H].

Example 84. Preparation of (S)-6-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

(S)-6-(tetrahydrofuran-3-yloxy)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared the same as above, using (S)-tetrahydrofuran-3-ol. 68% yield. MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₁N₃O₂: 181.09; found: 182 [M+H].

Example 85. Preparation of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine

A microwave vial was charged with 4-amino-6-chloropyrimidine (1.0 g, 7.72 mmol), and pyrrolidine (10 mL) was added. The vial was sealed, and heated in the microwave at 180° C. for 1 h. After cooling, the reaction was diluted with methanol (30 mL), and silica (15.0 g) was added. All solvents were removed in vacuo, and the remaining silica slurry loaded on a 40.0 g silica column. Elution with a 0% to 10% methanol in dichloromethane gradient yielded 6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine (1.22 g, 96% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₄N₄: 164.11.

Example 86. Preparation of 4-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrimidin-2-amine

A microwave vial was charged with 2-amino-4-chloropyrimidine (2.0 g, 15.4 mmol), and pyrrolidine (10 mL) was added. The vial was sealed, and heated in the microwave at 150° C. for 1 h. After cooling, the reaction was diluted with methanol (30 mL), and silica (15 g) was added. All solvents were removed in vacuo, and the remaining silica slurry loaded on a 40.0 g silica column. Elution with a 0% to 10% methanol in dichloromethane gradient yielded 4-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrimidin-2-amine (1.70 g, 67% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₄N₄: 164.11.

Example 87. Preparation of 2-(1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 3-(2-oxoethylidene)azetidine-1-carboxylate

To a solution of tert-butyl 3-oxoazetidine-1-carboxylate (20.0 g, 117 mmol) in DCM (400 mL) was added (formylmethylene)triphenylphosphorane (40 g, 129 mmol) at room temp, and the reaction mixture was stirred at 40° C. for 6 h, followed by concentration in vacuo. The residue was purified by silica gel column chromatography (hexanes:EtOAc 5:1) to give tert-butyl 3-(2-oxoethylidene)azetidine-1-carboxylate as a yellow oil (23.0 g, quant.). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₅NO₃: 197.11.

Step 2. Synthesis of tert-butyl 3-(acetylthio)-3-(2-oxoethyl)azetidine-1-carboxylate

To a solution of tert-butyl 3-(2-oxoethylidene)azetidine-1-carboxylate (985.0 mg, 5 mmol) in THF (4 mL) was added piperidine (0.035 mL, 0.35 mmol). Thioacetic acid (0.535 mL, 7.5 mmol) was added and the mixture was stirred at room temp for 6 h. The mixture was then directly purified by silica gel column chromatography (hexanes:EtOAc 2:1) to give tert-butyl 3-(acetylthio)-3-(2-oxoethyl)azetidine-1-carboxylate as a yellow oil (1.2 g, 88%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₉NO₄S: 273.10.

Step 3. Synthesis of tert-butyl 3-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3-mercaptoazetidine-1-carboxylate

To a solution of tert-butyl 3-(acetylthio)-3-(2-oxoethyl)azetidine-1-carboxylate (2.0 g, 7.3 mmol) in Et₂O (8 mL) was added dropwise LiAlH₄ (4 M in Et₂O; 8.4 mL, 8.4 mmol), upon which the mixture immediately turned to a colorless suspension. The mixture was stirred at room temp for 25 min, then it was diluted with Et₂O (20 mL) and quenched by addition of saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ (40 mL). The organic phase was diluted with EtOAc (40 mL) and to the aqueous phase was added a saturated aqueous solution of Rochelle's salt (40 mL), and the phases were separated. The aqueous phase was saturated with NaCl and extracted with EtOAc (50 mL). The combined organic phases were dried with Na₂SO₄, filtered, and concentrated in vacuo to afford tert-butyl 3-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3-mercaptoazetidine-1-carboxylate as a yellow oil (1.1 g, 65%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₉NO₃S: 233.11.

Step 4. Synthesis of tert-butyl 1-thia-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate

To a solution of diethoxytriphenylphosphorane (3.1 g, 5.2 mmol) in toluene (10 mL) was added at −30° C. a solution of tert-butyl 3-(2-hydroxyethyl)-3-mercaptoazetidine-1-carboxylate (1.0 g, 4.3 mmol) in toluene (8 mL), and the mixture was stirred at −30° C. for 1 h, then it was allowed to slowly warm to room temp overnight. After stirring for 13 h, the mixture was diluted with EtOAc (30 mL) and quenched with brine (20 mL). The phases were separated and the organic phase was dried with MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated in vacuo. Purification via silica gel column chromatography (hexanes:EtOAc 6:1) gave tert-butyl 1-thia-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate as a yellow oil (420.0 mg, 46%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₇NO₂S: 215.10.

Step 5. Synthesis of tert-butyl 1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate

To a solution of tert-butyl 1-thia-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate (420.0 mg, 1.96 mmol) in DCM (5 mL) was added at 0° C. m-CPBA (85%, 836.0 mg, 4.12 mmol), and the mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 15 min, followed by warming to room temp, and stirring was continued for 3.5 h. The reaction mixture was diluted with DCM (30 mL) and bicarb (30 mL) was added. The phases were separated, and the organic phase was dried with MgSO₄, filtered, and concentrated in vacuo. The product was purified via silica gel column chromatography (hexanes:EtOAc 2:1) to give tert-butyl 1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate as a colorless solid (500.0 mg, 100%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₇NO₄S: 247.09.

Step 6. Synthesis of 1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane

To tert-butyl 1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate (500.0 mg, 1.96 mmol) was added HCl/dioxane (4 M, 8 mL), and the mixture was stirred at room temp for 18 h. The mixture was concentrated in vacuo to give 1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane as a white solid (424.0 mg, ˜100%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₅H₉NO₂S: 147.04; found: 148.0 [M+H].

Step 7. Synthesis of 2-(1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine

To a solution of 1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane (1.7 g, 8.6 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) was added 2-chloropyrimidine-4-ylamine (1.5 g, 11.2 mmol) and CsCO₃ (11.2 g, 34.4 mmol), and the mixture stirred at 70° C. for 18 h. The mixture was concentrated in vacuo and the residue dissolved with DCM/MeOH 2:1. This solution was filtered and the filtrate concentrated in vacuo. Purification with prep. TLC (DCM/MeOH 15:1) gave 2-(1-(dioxothia)-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyrimidin-4-amine as a white solid (903.0 mg, 43%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₂N₄O₂S: 240.07; found: 241.0 [M+H].

Example 88. Preparation of 5-morpholinothiazol-2-amine

A mixture of 5-bromothiazol-2-amine hydrobromide (7.8 g, 30.0 mmol), morpholine (10.5 g, 120 mmol), and Cs₂CO₃ (48.9 g, 150 mmol) in CH₃CN (100 mL) was stirred at room temperature for 1 h. The mixture was poured into H₂O (100 mL), extracted with EtOAc, dried (Na₂SO₄), and concentrated. The crude product was purified by column chromatography to give 5-morpholinothiazol-2-amine (2.0 g, 36% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₁₁N₃OS (m/z): 185.06.

Example 89. Preparation of 6-((4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 6-(chloromethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

Methanesulfonyl chloride (19.0 g, 165.9 mmol) was added dropwise to a solution of tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (30.0 g, 133.4 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (50.0 g, 387.6 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (300 mL) at 0° C. The mixture was stirred for 24 h at room temp. The reaction mixture was concentrated and H₂O (300 mL) was added. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×200 mL), dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude product was purified by column chromatography eluting with pentane/EtOAc to give tert-butyl 6-(chloromethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (29.5 g, 91% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₅ClN₂O₂ (m/z): 242.08.

Step 2. Synthesis of tert-butyl 6-((4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

A mixture of tert-butyl 6-(chloromethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (7.0 g, 28.9 mmol), 4,4-difluoropiperidine hydrochloride (5.2 g, 43.1 mmol), K₂CO₃ (10.4 g, 75.4 mmol) and potassium iodide (800.0 mg, 4.8 mmol) in DMF (70 mL) was stirred at 60° C. for 16 h. H₂O (200 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc then washed with H₂O. The crude product was purified by column chromatography eluting with EtOAc/pentane (1:2) to give tert-butyl 6-((4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (8.0 g, 85% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₂₃F₂N₃O₂ (m/z): 327.18.

Step 3. Synthesis of 6-((4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine

HCl (g) was bubbled through a solution of tert-butyl 6-((4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (8.0 g, 24.4 mmol) in MeOH (100 mL) at room temperature for 2 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude residue was dissolved in MeOH (5 mL) and a mixture of CH₂Cl₂/acetone was added to form a ppt which was collected by filtration and rinsed with CH₂Cl₂. Repeated three times to give 6-((4,4-difluoropiperidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine hydrochloride (6.0 g, 93% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₅F₂N₃ (m/z): 227.12.

Example 90. Preparation of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carboxylic acid

(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (2.50 g, 18.93 mmol) was added to a room temperature suspension of NaH 60 wt % (833.0 mg, 20.82 mmol) in THF (50 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 30 min and a solution of 6-chloropyrazine-2-carboxylic acid (1.0 g, 6.31 mmol) in THF (20 mL) was added. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 30 min then heated at reflux for 2 h. After cooling to room temp, the pH was adjusted to 3 by the addition of 3 N HCl (4 mL). The mixture was poured into brine and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were dried and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from pentane/EtOAc to give (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carboxylic acid (764.0 mg, 48% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₄N₂O₆ (m/z): 254.09; found: 255 [M+H].

Example 91. Preparation of (S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid

(S)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (4.98 g, 37.72 mmol) was added to a room temperature suspension of NaH 60 wt % (1.7 g, 41.5 mmol) in THF. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 30 min and a solution of ethyl 6-chloropicolinate (1.40 g, 7.54 mmol) in THF was added. The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 16 h. After cooling to room temp, the pH was adjusted to 4 by the addition of 3 N HCl. The mixture was poured into brine and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were dried and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from pentane/EtOAc to give (S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carboxylic acid (1.30 g, 68% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₅NO₅ (m/z): 253.10.

Example 92. Preparation of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid

(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (1.07 g, 8.07 mmol) was added to a room temperature suspension of NaH 60 wt % (385.0 mg, 8.89 mmol) in THF. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 30 min and a solution of ethyl 6-chloropicolinate (500.0 mg, 2.69 mmol) in THF was added. The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 16 h. After cooling to room temp, the pH was adjusted to 4 by the addition of 3 N HCl. The mixture was poured into brine and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were dried and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from pentane/EtOAc to give (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazine-2-carboxylic acid (500.0 mg, 74% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₅NO₅ (m/z): 253.10.

Example 93. Preparation of (R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid

(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (1.80 mL, 14.95 mmol) was added to a room temperature suspension of NaH 60 wt % (653.0 mg, 16.34 mmol) in THF (30 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 30 min and 2-bromo-nicotinic acid (1.0 g, 4.95 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 16 h. After cooling to room temp, the pH was adjusted to 3 by the addition of 3 N HCl. The mixture was poured into brine and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were dried and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from pentane/EtOAc to give (R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid (1.16 g, 92% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₅NO₅ (m/z): 253.10.

Example 94. Preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid

Solketal (23.5 g, 178 mmol) was added dropwise to a suspension of NaH 60 wt % (7.1 g, 178 mmol) in THF (400 mL) at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 h at 25° C. and 6-bromopicolinic acid (12.0 g, 59.4 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 1.5 h. After cooling to room temp, H₂O was added and the pH was adjusted to 2-3. The mixture extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were washed with H₂O, dried and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from pentane/EtOAc to give 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid (10.0 g, 66% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₅NO₅ (m/z): 253.10; found: 254 [M+H].

Example 95. Preparation of 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid

Solketal (39.1 g, 300 mmol) was added to a suspension of NaH 60 wt % (12.0 g, 300 mmol) at 0° C. in 1,4-dioxane (1.5 L) at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 1 h at 25° C. and 2-bromonicotinic acid (20.0 g, 100 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was heated at reflux. After cooling to room temp, H₂O was added and the pH was adjusted to 2-3. The mixture extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were dried and concentrated. The crude product was purified by column chromatography eluting with MeOH/DCM/AcOH (300:60:1) to give 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid (6.1 g, 24% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₅NO₅ (m/z): 253.10; found: 254 [M+H].

Example 96. Preparation of 6-(azetidin-1-yl)picolinic acid Step 1. Synthesis of methyl 6-(azetidin-1-yl)picolinate

A mixture of methyl 6-bromopicolinate (5.0 g, 23.00 mmol), azetidine hydrochloride (4.40 g, 46.0 mmol), K₂CO₃ (9.70 g, 70.0 mmol), CuI (880.0 mg, 4.60 mmol) and L-proline (1.06 g, 9.20 mmol) in DMSO (50 mL) was stirred at 80° C. 16 h. The mixture was cooled to room temp and the solids were removed by filtration. The filtrate was diluted with CH₂Cl₂ (800 mL), washed with water, brine, dried and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography to give methyl 6-(azetidin-1-yl)picolinate (2.84 g, 64% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₂N₂O₂ (m/z): 192.09.

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(azetidin-1-yl)picolinic acid

A mixture of methyl 6-(azetidine-1-yl)picolinate (5.67 g, 29.50 mmol) and KOH (3.36 g, 60.0 mmol) in MeOH (100 mL) was stirred at room temp for 16 h. Conc. HCl (5.00 mL) was added. The resulting ppt was removed by filtration and the filtrate was concentrated. The residue was dissolved in CH₂Cl₂ and the solids removed by filtration. The CH₂Cl₂ was concentrated and the residue was recrystallized from iPrOH to give 6-(azetidine-1-yl)picolinic acid (4.01 g, 76% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₀N₂O₂ (m/z): 178.07; found: 179 [M+H].

Example 97. Preparation of (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoic acid Step 1. Synthesis of (R)-methyl 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoate

A mixture of methyl 3-hydroxybenzoate (3.0 g, 19.7 mmol), (S)-4-(chloromethyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane (4.5 g, 29.6 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (5.5 g, 39.4 mmol) in DMF (50 mL) was stirred for 18 h at 160° C. The mixture was diluted with water (150 mL) and the pH was adjusted to 6 by addition of 3N HCl. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×200 mL) and the combined organic layers were dried over anhydrous MgSO₄, concentrated under reduced pressure to give (R)-methyl 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoate (3.0 g, 57% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁₈O₅ (m/z): 266.12.

Step 2. Synthesis of (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoic acid

A solution of (R)-methyl 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoate (5.5 g, 20.7 mmol) in THF/H₂O (2:1, 60 mL) was added dropwise to a solution of LiOH (2.3 g, 95.8 mmol) in H₂O. The mixture was stirred for 8 h at 40° C. then concentrated and diluted with H₂O (20 mL). The mixture was washed with EtOAc (2×50 mL) and the aqueous layer was brought to pH 4 by the addition of 3N HCl. The resulting ppt was collected by filtration and dried. The crude residue was purified by column chromatography eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (5%) to give (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoic acid (3.0 g, 57% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₁₆O₅ (m/z): 252.10; found 251 [M−H].

Example 98. Preparation of (S)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoic acid Step 1. Synthesis of (S)-methyl 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoate

A mixture of methyl 3-hydroxybenzoate (6.7 g, 44.3 mmol), (R)-4-(chloromethyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane (10.0 g, 66.4 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (12.2 g, 88.6 mmol) in DMF (100 mL) was stirred for 18 h at 160° C. The mixture was diluted with water (500 mL) and the pH was adjusted to 5 by addition of 3N HCl. The mixture was extracted with ethyl acetate (3×200 mL) and the combined organic layers were dried over anhydrous MgSO₄, concentrated under reduced pressure to give (S)-methyl 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoate (10.0 g, 85% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁₈O₅ (m/z): 266.12.

Step 2. Synthesis of (S)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoic acid

LiOH (5.0 g, 208 mmol) in H₂O was added to a solution of (S)-methyl 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoate (10.0 g, 37.6 mmol) in THF/H₂O (5:1, 120 mL). The mixture was stirred for 15 h at 40° C. then concentrated and diluted with sat. aq Na₂CO₃ (100 mL). The mixture was washed with EtOAc (2×100 mL) and the aqueous layer was brought to pH 4 by the addition of 3N HCl. The resulting ppt was collected by filtration and dried. The crude residue was purified by column chromatography eluting with pentane/EtOAc (2:1) to give (S)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)benzoic acid (4.9 g, 52% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₁₆O₅ (m/z): 252.10; found 251 [M−H].

Example 99. Preparation of 6-(morpholinomethyl)picolinic acid Step 1. Synthesis of 4-((6-bromopyridin-2-yl)methyl)morpholine

NaBH(OAc)₃ (68.5 g, 0.323 mol) was added to a solution of 6-bromopicolinaldehyde (40 g, 0.22 mol) and morpholine (20.9 g, 0.24 mol) in 1,2-dichloroethane (500 mL). The mixture was stirred at room temp for 16 h. Saturated NaHCO₃ (500 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc, washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by column chromatography on silica gel eluting with petroleum ether: ethyl acetate (10:1) to give 4-((6-bromopyridin-2-yl)methyl)morpholine (38.0 g, 68% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₃BrN₂O (m/z): 256.02.

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(morpholinomethyl)picolinic acid

n-BuLi (3.7 mL, 9.30 mmol) in THF was added to a solution of 4-((6-bromopyridin-2-yl)methyl)morpholine (2.0 g, 7.78 mol) in THF (20 mL) at −78° C. The mixture was stirred for 30 min and CO₂ (gas) was bubbled through the reaction mixture for 30 min. The volatiles were removed in vacuo and the residue was dissolved in H₂O. The pH was adjusted to 5 with 3N HCl then to 7 with sat. aq NaHCO₃. The mixture was concentrated to dryness and the residue was taken up in CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (1:1), passed through a filter and the filtrate was concentrated. The residue was dissolved in CH₂Cl₂, passed through a filter, concentrated and dried under vacuum to give 6-(morpholinomethyl)picolinic acid (1.0 g, 67% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₄N₂O₃ (m/z): 222.10; found 223 [M+H].

Example 100. Preparation of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinic acid Step 1. Synthesis of methyl 6-(chloromethyl)picolinate

SOCl₂ (1.4 g, 12.0 mmol) was added to a solution of methyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)picolinate (1.0 g, 6.0 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (30 mL) at 25° C. The mixture was stirred at 40° C. for 1 h and sat. aq Na₂CO₃ was added to adjust the pH to 9. The mixture was extracted with CH₂Cl₂ and the combined organics were washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄), and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by column chromatography eluting with pentane/EtOAc (3:1) to give methyl 6-(chloromethyl)picolinate (600.0 mg, 55% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₈ClNO₂ (m/z): 185.02.

Step 2. Synthesis of methyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinate

K₂CO₃ (746.0 mg, 5.40 mmol) was added to a solution of methyl 6-(chloromethyl)picolinate (500.0 mg, 2.70 mmol) and pyrrolidine (288.0 mg, 4.05 mmol) in DMF (20 mL). The reaction mixture was heated at 45° C. for 16 h. Water (20 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by column chromatography eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (10-20%) to give methyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinate (330.0 mg, 56% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₆N₂O₂ (m/z): 220.12.

Step 3. Synthesis of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinic acid

A mixture of methyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinate (200.0 mg, 0.91 mmol) and NaOH (200.0 mg, 4.55 mmol) in ethanol/water (2:1, 30 mL) was stirred at 70° C. for 16 h. The pH was adjusted to 7 with 3N HCl and the mixture was concentrated. The residue was dissolved in CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (5:1), passed through a filter and concentrated to dryness to give 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinic acid (187.0 mg, 99% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₄N₂O₂ (m/z): 206.11; found 207 [M+H].

Example 101. Preparation of 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate (10)

A slurry of ethyl 2-aminothiazole-5-carboxylate (8; 145.0 g, 840 mmol), di-tert-butyl dicarbonate (275.0 g, 1260 mmol) and DMAP (5.0 mg, catalytic) in THF (2175 mL) was stirred at 30° C. for 5.5 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated to dryness and EtOAc (1450 mL) was added. The organic solvent was washed with water (2×435 mL) and brine (2×145 mL), dried over MgSO₄ and concentrated to give ethyl 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazole-5-carboxylate (227.0 g, 99.23%) as a crude product, which was used for the next step without any further purification. MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₆N₂O₄S (m/z): 272.32.

A stirred solution of ethyl 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazole-5-carboxylate (227.0 g, 830 mmol) in anhydrous THF (1512 mL) was cooled to −45° C. A solution of superhydride in THF (1.0 M, 1877 mL) was added over 1 hr, and then the reaction mixture was stirred at −45° C. for 2 h, warmed to room temp for 20 h. The reaction was quenched was brine, and warmed to room temp. The mixture was concentrated, taken up in EtOAc and washed with brine, dried over Na₂SO₄, concentrated and purified by column chromatography on silica gel (petroleum ether/ethyl acetate=1:1) to give tert-butyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate (10; 95 g, 49%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₄N₂O₃S (m/z): 230.28.

Step 2. Synthesis of 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine-hydrochloride salt (12)

A solution of tert-butyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate (37.0 g, 160 mmol), triethylamine (24.2 g, 240 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (231 mL) was cooled to 0° C. Mesyl chloride (23.16 g, 200 mmol) was added and the mixture was extracted with CH₂Cl₂ (2×93 mL). The combined organic layers were dried over Na₂SO₄ and concentrated in vacuo to give 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazol-5-yl)methyl methanesulfonate (40.0 g, 75%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₆N₂O₅S₂ (m/z): 308.37.

To a stirred solution of 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazol-5-yl)methyl methanesulfonate (40.0 g, 0.13 mol) in CH₂Cl₂ (140 mL) was added pyrrolidine (37.69 g, 530 mmol) at 0° C. and warmed to room temp. The mixture was washed with saturated NaHCO₃, and brine (93 mL). The organic solvent was dried over Na₂SO₄, concentrated and purified by column chromatography on silica gel (petroleum ether: ethyl acetate=1:1) to give 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine (as the free amine)(34.0 g, 75%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₃N₃S (m/z): 183.27.

A stirred solution of 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine (34.0 g, 190 mmol) in methanol (121 mL) was bubbled with HCl (gas) and monitored by TLC until all material consumed. The solvent was removed and EtOAc (121 mL) was added to form a precipitate. The mixture was filtered and the filter cake was washed successively with EtOAc to give 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine (as the HCl salt) (20.6 g, 67%) as a white solid. MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₃N₃S.HCl (m/z): 219.73; found 184 [M+H]. 5-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine

was prepared by the same procedure above, by substituting morpholine for pyrroldine.

Example 102. Preparation of 2-(difluoromethyl)benzaldehyde 92 Step 1. Synthesis of 1-bromo-2-(difluoromethyl)benzene

DAST (8.7 g, 54.1 mmol) was added to a mixture of 2-bromobenzaldehyde (5.0 g, 27.0 mmol) in dichloromethane (100 mL) at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred at room temperature for 12 h, poured into sat. aq NaHCO₃, and extracted with EtOAc. The organic layer was concentrated to give 1-bromo-2-(difluoromethyl)benzene (5.4 g, 96% yield), which was used in next step with no further purification.

Step 2. Synthesis of 2-(difluoromethyl)benzaldehyde

A solution of n-BuLi (4.2 mL, 10.6 mmol) in THF was added to a solution of 1-bromo-2-(difluoromethyl)benzene (2.0 g, 9.7 mmol) in THF (50 mL) at −78° C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 30 min and DMF (1.4 g, 19.3 mmol) was added. Stirring was continued for 1 h at −40° C. and the reaction was quenched by the addition of sat. aq NH₄Cl. The crude mixture was extracted with Et₂O, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated to give 2-(difluoromethyl)benzaldehyde (1.7 g, 94% yield).

Example 103. Preparation of 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride 96 Step 1. Synthesis of methyl 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoate

A solution of methyl 2-formylbenzoate (10.0 g, 61 mmol) and bis-(2-methoxyethyl)amino-sulfur trifluoride (40.4 g, 183 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ was heated at reflux for 12 h. The reaction mixture was cooled to room temp, concentrated and partitioned between EtOAc (500 mL)/H₂O (300 mL). NaHCO₃ was added to adjust the pH to 8. The organic phase was separated, washed with brine, dried and concentrated. The residue was purified by flash chromatography to give methyl 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoate (7.0 g, 62% yield).

Step 2. Synthesis of 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoic acid

A mixture of methyl 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoate (7.0 g, 38 mmol) and 10% aq. NaOH (100 mL) in MeOH (50 mL) was heated at reflux for 30 min. The pH was adjusted to 4 by the addition of 3N HCl. The resulting solid was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O and dried to give 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoic acid (6.0 g, 93% yield).

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride

A solution of 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoic acid (1.8 g, 10 mmol) in thionyl chloride (25 mL) was heated at reflux for 3 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated and dried under vacuum to give 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride. The crude acid chloride was used without further purification.

Example 104. Preparation of 3-(difluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride

3-(difluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for 2-(difluoromethyl)benzoyl chloride in 32% yield.

Example 105. Preparation of (R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid

(R)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol (1.8 mL, 14.9 mmol) was added to a room temperature suspension of NaH (392.0 mg, 16.3 mmol) in THF (30 mL). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 30 min and 2-bromo-nicotinic acid (1.0 g, 4.95 mmol) was added. The reaction mixture was heated at reflux for 12 h. After cooling to room temp, the pH was adjusted to 3 by the addition of 3 N HCl. The mixture was poured into brine and extracted with EtOAc. The combined organics were dried and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from pentane/EtOAc to give (R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid (1.2 g, 92% yield).

Example 106. Preparation of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid

(R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid in 74% yield.

Example 107. Preparation of (R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)isonicotinic acid

(R)-2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)isonicotinic acid was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid in 72% yield.

Example 108. Preparation of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid

(R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid in 60% yield.

Example 109. Preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid

6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid in 66% yield.

Example 110. Preparation of 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid

2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)nicotinic acid was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)picolinic acid in 23% yield.

Example 111. Preparation 6-(morpholinomethyl)picolinic acid Step 1. Synthesis of 4-((6-bromopyridin-2-yl)methyl)morpholine

NaBH(OAc)₃ (68.5 g, 0.323 mol) was added to a solution of 6-bromopicolinaldehyde (40.0 g, 0.22 mol) and morpholine (20.9 g, 0.24 mol) in 1,2-dichloroethane (500 mL). The mixture was stirred at room temperature for 16 h. Saturated NaHCO₃ (500 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc, washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated in vacuo. The residue was purified by flash chromatography on silica gel eluting with petroleum ether: ethyl acetate (10:1) to give 4-((6-bromopyridin-2-yl)methyl)morpholine (38.0 g, 68% yield).

Step 2. Synthesis of 6-(morpholinomethyl)picolinic acid

n-BuLi (56 mL, 0.140 mol) in THF was added to a solution of 4-((6-bromopyridin-2-yl)methyl)morpholine (30.0 g, 0.12 mol) in THF (500 mL) at −78° C. The mixture was stirred for 30 min and CO₂ (gas) was bubbled through the reaction mixture for 30 min. The volatiles were removed in vacuo and the residue was extracted with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (1:1). The solvent was evaporated and the residue was washed with CH₂Cl₂ to give 6-(morpholinomethyl)picolinic acid (11.0 g, 42% yield).

Example 112. Preparation of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinic acid Step 1. Synthesis of methyl 6-(chloromethyl)picolinate

SOCl₂ (57.0 g, 0.48 mol) was added to a solution of methyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)picolinate (40.0 g, 0.239 mol) in dichloromethane (500 mL) at room temp. The mixture was stirred at 40° C. for 1 h and sat. aq K₂CO₃ was added to adjust the pH to 9. The mixture was extracted with CH₂Cl₂ and the combined organics were washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄), and concentrated in vacuo to give methyl 6-(chloromethyl)picolinate (45.0 g).

Step 2. Synthesis of methyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinate

K₂CO₃ (66.0 g, 0.48 mol) was added to a solution of methyl 6-(chloromethyl)picolinate (45.0 g) and pyrrolidine (34.0 g, 0.48 mol) in DMF (300 mL). The reaction mixture was heated at 80° C. for 12 h. H₂O (300 mL) was added and the mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated in vacuo to give methyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinate (36.0 g).

Step 3. Synthesis of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinic acid

A mixture of methyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinate (36.0 g) and NaOH (40.0 g, 1.0 mol) in ethanol/H₂O (320 mL) was stirred at 75° C. for 16 h. The pH was adjusted to 7 with 3N HCl and extracted with EtOAc. The aqueous layer was concentrated to dryness and extracted with dichloromethane/methanol (v:v=3:1), The organic layer was dried to give 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)picolinic acid (27.0 g, 55% yield).

Example 113. Preparation of N-Methyl Proline

N-methyl proline was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported in J. Org. Chem. 2003, 66, 2652.

Example 114. Preparation of 1-methyl-5-oxopyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid

1-methyl-5-oxopyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported in J. Heterocyclic. Chem. 1991, 28, 1143.

Example 115. Preparation of 3-(morpholinomethyl)aniline

3-(morpholinomethyl)aniline was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported in J. Med. Chem. 1990, 33(1), 327-36.

Example 116. Preparation of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-aminopicolinate

To a solution of 2-amino-6-pyridinecarboxylic acid (6.0 g, 43.5 mmol) in ethanol (150 mL) was added thionyl chloride (12.0 g, 101 mmol) at 0° C. The resulting reaction mixture was stirred at reflux for 12 h. Upon cooling to room temp, the reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. Saturated aqueous Na₂CO₃ solution was added until the pH of the solution reached 9. The mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure and dichloromethane (150 mL) was added to the resulting residue. The mixture was stirred vigorously at room temp for 30 min and then filtered. The filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure to afford ethyl 6-aminopicolinate (5.5 g, 76% yield).

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)picolinate

To a solution of ethyl 6-aminopicolinate (5.5 g, 33 mmol) in t-BuOH (120 mL) and acetone (40 mL) was added 4-dimethylaminopyridine (0.08 g, 0.66 mmol) and di-tert-butyl dicarbonate (10.8 g, 49.5 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 18 h. The solvent was removed by concentration under reduced pressure and a mixture of hexane/dichloromethane (180 mL, 3:1) was added. The resulting mixture was cooled to −20° C. for 2 h. The resulting solids were collected by filtration and dried to afford ethyl 6-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)picolinate (11.0 g, 91% yield).

Step 3. Synthesis of tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

To a stirred solution of ethyl 6-(bis(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)picolinate (11.0 g, 33 mmol) in THF (120 mL) under nitrogen was added LiAlH₄ (3.80 g, 100 mmol) in THF (60 mL) over a period of 30 min at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 6 h and carefully quenched by the addition of H₂O (2.0 mL) and 10% NaOH solution (4.0 mL) at 0° C. The reaction mixture was filtered and the filtrate was dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting residue purified by chromatography (1:1 petroleum ether: ethyl acetate) to afford tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (3.0 g, 41% yield).

Step 4. Synthesis of (6-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)pyridin-2-yl)methyl methanesulfonate

To a solution of tert-butyl 6-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (3.0 g, 13.4 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (5.0 g, 40 mmol) in acetonitrile (30 mL) was added methanesulfonyl chloride (2.0 g, 17.4 mmol) over a period of 30 min at 0° C. and the mixture was stirred for 2 h at room temp. The reaction was quenched by adding saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ and extracted with ethyl acetate (3×60 mL). The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford (6-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)pyridin-2-yl)methyl methanesulfonate in quantitative yield of crude.

Step 5. Synthesis of tert-butyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

A mixture containing (6-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)pyridin-2-yl)methyl methanesulfonate (1.30 g, 3.2 mmol), pyrrolidine (0.46 g, 6.4 mmol) and K₂CO₃ (1.30 g, 9.6 mmol) in acetonitrile (15 mL) was stirred at room temp for 12 h. Saturated aqueous NaHCO₃ was added and the mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford tert-butyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (0.75 g, 62% yield).

Step 6. Synthesis of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine

To a solution of tert-butyl 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (750.0 mg, 2.71 mmol) in dichloromethane (10 mL) was added trifluoroacetic acid (4.0 mL) at room temp. The resulting reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 6 h and then concentrated under reduced pressure. Saturated aqueous Na₂CO₃ was added to the resulting residue until the solution pH reached 9. The mixture was then extracted with ethyl acetate (3×25 mL). The combined organic layers were dried with Na₂SO₄ and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine (440.0 mg, 92% yield).

Example 117. Preparation of 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-amine

6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 118. Preparation of (R)-6-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine

(R)-6-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 119. Preparation of (S)-6-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine

(S)-6-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 120. Preparation of 6-(piperazin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine

6-(piperazin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 6-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 121. Preparation of tert-butyl 4-((6-aminopyridin-2-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate

To a solution of 6-(piperazin-1-ylmethyl) 199yridine-2-amine in THF was added di-tert-butyl carbonate (1 eq) and 4-(dimethyl)aminopyridine (catalytic). The reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 18 h. It was then concentrated under reduced pressure. Pentane was added and the resulting solid was collected by filtration and dried to afford tert-butyl 4-((6-aminopyridin-2-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate.

Example 122. Preparation of 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazole-4-carboxylate

Ethyl 2-aminothiazole-4-carboxylate (10.0 g, 58.1 mmol) was taken up in 150 mL of anhydrous THF along with di-tert-butyl carbonate (12.67 g, 58.1 mmol) and 4-(dimethyl)aminopyridine (DMAP) (10.0 mg, 0.082 mmol). The reaction mixture was stirred at 50° C. for 4 h and then at room temp for 18 h. It was then concentrated under reduced pressure to obtain a thick oil. Pentane was added and the resulting crystalline materials were collected by filtration and dried to afford ethyl 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazole-4-carboxylate (10.5 g, 66% yield).

Step 2. Synthesis of tert-butyl 4-(hydroxymethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate

Ethyl 2-(tert-butoxycarbonylamino)thiazole-4-carboxylate (10.5 g, 38.6 mmol) was dissolved in 300 mL of anhydrous THF and cooled in dry ice-acetonitrile bath. A solution of 1 M Super Hydride™ in THF (85 mL) was then added over a period of 10 min. The resulting reaction mixture was stirred at −45° C. for 2 h. Another portion of 1 M Super Hydride™ in THF (35 mL) was then added and the reaction mixture was stirred for an additional 2 h at −45° C. The reaction was quenched at −45° C. by the addition of 50 mL of brine. Upon warming to room temp, the reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting mixture was extracted with EtOAc. The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, and concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting residue was purified by chromatography to afford tert-butyl 4-(hydroxymethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate (6.39 g, 72% yield).

Step 3. Synthesis of tert-butyl 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate

tert-Butyl 4-(hydroxymethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate (2.0 g, 8.68 mmol) was taken up in 25 mL of CH₂Cl₂ along with Et₃N (1.82 mL, 13.05 mmol) and cooled to 0° C. Methanesulfonyl chloride (0.85 mL, 10.88 mmol) was added and the resulting reaction mixture was stirred at 0° C. for 60 min. Morpholine (3.0 mL, 35 mmol) was then added and the reaction mixture was stirred at room temp for 18 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting residue was taken up in EtOAc and washed with dilute aqueous NaHCO₃, brine, dried with Na₂SO₄, and concentrated under reduced pressure. This material was purified by filtering through a short column of silica gel. The filtrate was concentrated to afford tert-butyl 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate (1.88 g, 69% yield).

Step 4. Synthesis of 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate

Tert-butyl 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-ylcarbamate 1.88 g, 6.28 mmol) was treated with 20 mL of 25% trifluoroacetic acid in CH₂Cl₂ for 18 h at room temp. After all the solvent had been removed by concentrating and drying under high vacuum, the resulting residue was treated with a mixture of pentane/EtOAc to afford 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate (1.96 g, 100% yield) as a white solid.

Example 123. Preparation of 4-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate

4-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate.

Example 124. Preparation of 5-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate

5-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate.

Example 125. Preparation 5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate

5-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate.

Example 126. Preparation 4-(piperazin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate

4-(piperazin-1-ylmethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for 4-(morpholinomethyl)thiazol-2-amine trifluoroacetate.

Example 127. Preparation of tert-butyl 4-((2-aminothiazol-4-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate

tert-butyl 4-((2-aminothiazol-4-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate was prepared by a procedure similar to that reported for tert-butyl 4-((6-aminopyridin-2-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate.

Example 128. Preparation of 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine

To a solution of solketal (34.4 g, 260 mmol) in THF (150 mL) was added NaH (10.4 g, 260 mmol) at room temp and the mixture stirred for 1 h. 2-chloro-4-aminopyrimidine (15.0 g, 115 mmol) was then added, and the mixture was stirred at 70° C. for 48 h. The reaction mixture was concentrated and the crude residue was purified by flash chromatography (DCM:MeOH=15:1-10:1) to give 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine (18.2 g, 70% yield) as an oil.

Example 129. Preparation of 6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine

6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrazin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine.

Example 130. Preparation of (S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-aminopyridine

(S)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-aminopyridine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine, using (S)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol.

The enantiomer was prepared the same as above, using (R)-(2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methanol.

Example 131. Preparation of (R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-aminopyridine

(R)-6-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)-2-aminopyridine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-4-amine.

Example 132. Preparation of (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline Step 1. Synthesis of (R)-2,2-dimethyl-4-((3-nitrophenoxy)methyl)-1,3-dioxolane

A mixture of 3-nitrophenol (2.0 g, 14.4 mmol), potassium carbonate (4.96 g, 35.9 mmol) and (S)-4-(chloromethyl)-2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolane (2.55 mL, 18.7 mmol) in DMF (20 mL) was heated in a microwave reactor at 160° C. for 4 h. The crude reaction mixture was poured into H₂O and extracted with dichloromethane (3×15 mL). The combined organic layers were dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated under reduced pressure. The crude residue was purified by chromatography using ethyl acetate: pentane to obtain (R)-2,2-dimethyl-4-((3-nitrophenoxy)methyl)-1,3-dioxolane (1.90 g, 52% yield) as an amber-colored oil.

Step 2. Synthesis of (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline

A mixture of Fe powder (2.38 g, 42.5 mmol), NH₄Cl (2.27 g, 42.5 mmol) and (R)-2,2-dimethyl-4-((3-nitrophenoxy)methyl)-1,3-dioxolane (1.80 g, 7.09 mmol) in isopropanol (30 mL)/H₂O (10 mL) was heated at reflux for 18 h. The crude material was filtered through a pad of Celite and the filtrate was concentrated under reduced pressure. The resulting aqueous layer was extracted with dichloromethane (3×15 mL). The combined organic layers were dried with Na₂SO₄, and concentrated under reduced pressure to afford (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline (1.25 g, 76% yield).

Example 133. Preparation of 3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline

3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline was prepared by a method similar to that reported for (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline.

Example 134. Preparation of (S)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline

(S)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline was prepared by a method similar to that reported for (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline.

Example 135. Preparation of 4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline

4-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline was prepared by a method similar to that reported for (R)-3-((2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxolan-4-yl)methoxy)aniline.

Example 136. Preparation of 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine

A mixture of 2-chloro-4-aminopyridine (2.29 g, 17.8 mmol) and pyrrolidine (5.0 mL) was heated at 200° C. in a microwave reactor for 10 min. After cooling to room temp, the solid was filtered and washed with dichloromethane (10 mL×3). The filter cake was dissolved in aqueous K₂CO₃ and extracted with CH₂Cl₂ (40 mL×3). The combined organic layers were dried over Na₂SO₄ and concentrated to obtain (2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine (2.30 g, 79% yield).

Example 137. Preparation of 2-morpholinopyridin-4-amine

2-morpholinopyridin-4-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine.

Example 138. Preparation of 6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine

6-morpholinopyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine.

Example 139. Preparation of 6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-amine

6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyridin-4-amine.

Example 140. Preparation of (S)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine Step 1. Synthesis of ethyl 6-aminonicotinate

To a solution of 2-amino-5-pyridinecarboxylic acid (150.0 g, 1.09 mol) in ethanol (2 L) was added thionyl chloride (259.0 g, 2.18 mol) at 0° C. The mixture was heated at reflux for 12 h. The solvent was removed under reduced pressure. Saturated aq Na₂CO₃ was added to adjust the pH to 9 and the resulting solid was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O, and dried to give ethyl 6-aminonicotinate (160.0 g, 88% yield).

Step 2. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(bis(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)nicotinate

To a solution of ethyl 6-aminonicotinate (160.0 g, 963 mmol) in t-BuOH (1.7 L) and acetone (560 mL) was added DMAP (2.38 g, 19.1 mmol) and di-t-butyl dicarbonate (420.0 g, 1.92 mol). The reaction was stirred at room temp overnight. The solvent was removed and hexane/dichloromethane (2.5 L, 3:1) was added. The mixture was cooled to −20° C. for 2 h. The solid was collected by filtration and dried in vacuo to give ethyl 6-(bis(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)nicotinate (300.0 g, 85% yield).

Step 3. Synthesis of tert-butyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

To a stirred solution of ethyl 6-(bis(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino)nicotinate (300.0 g, 819 mmol) in THF (1.2 L) was added LiAlH₄ (57.6 g, 1.51 mol) in THF (3 L) over a period of 30 min at 0° C. The reaction mixture was stirred for 6 h, and H₂O (30.0 mL) and 10% NaOH solution (60.0 mL) were added. The solids were removed by filtration and the filtrate was dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated. The crude residue was purified by flash chromatography (DCM:MeOH=40:1) to give tert-butyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (85.0 g, 46% yield).

Step 4. Synthesis of tert-butyl 5-(chloromethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

To a solution of tert-butyl 5-(hydroxymethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (85.0 g, 379 mmol) and diisopropylethylamine (296.0 g, 2.27 mol) in THF (850 mL) was added methanesulfonyl chloride (130.0 g, 1.14 mol) over a period of 30 min at 0° C. The mixture was stirred for 12 h at room temp then washed with H₂O (2×100 mL) and dried over Na₂SO₄. The mixture was concentrated and the crude residue was purified by flash chromatography (petroleum ether: ethyl acetate=10:1) to give tert-butyl 5-(chloromethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (30.0 g, 63% yield).

Step 5. Synthesis of (S)-tert-butyl 5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate

A mixture of tert-butyl 5-(chloromethyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (9.5 g, 39.1 mmol), (S)-3-fluoropyrrolidine (4.19 g, 47.0 mmol), potassium carbonate (16.2 g, 117 mmol) and sodium iodide (0.59 g, 3.91 mmol) in DMF (150 mL) was stirred at 60° C. for 2 h. The reaction mixture was filtered, and the filtrate was concentrated in vacuo. H₂O (250 mL) was added and the resulting solid was collected by filtration, rinsed with H₂O and dried to give (S)-tert-butyl 5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (7.0 g, 61% yield).

Step 6. Synthesis of (S)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine

To a solution of (S)-tert-butyl 5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (7.0 g, 23.7 mmol) in dichloromethane (70 mL) was added trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) (15.5 g, 142 mmol). The mixture was stirred for 12 h at room temp. The solvent was removed in vacuo and sat. aq Na₂CO₃ was added. The mixture was extracted with dichloromethane, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated to give (S)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine (4.50 g, 97% yield).

Example 141. Preparation of 5-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine

5-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for (S)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 142. Preparation of 6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine

6-(morpholinomethyl)pyridin-3-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for (S)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 143. Preparation of (R)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine

(R)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for (S)-5-((3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)methyl)pyridin-2-amine.

Example 144. Preparation of 2-(morpholinomethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine Step 1. Synthesis of 2-chloroacetimidamide dihydrochloride

2-chloroacetonitrile (300.0 g, 4.0 mol) was added to a solution of sodium (10.0 g, 0.43 mol) in methanol (1000 mL) keeping the temperature below 20° C. The mixture was stirred at room temp for 2 h. NH₄Cl (234.0 g, 4.37 mol) was added in 5 batches and stirring continued for another 2 h. The solvent was removed to give 2-chloroacetimidamide dihydrochloride (525.0 g, 79% yield) which was used directly for next step without further purification.

Step 2. Synthesis of 2-(chloromethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

A solution of 2-chloroacetimidamide dihydrochloride (250.0 g, 1.51 mol), 2-chloroacrylonitrile (171.0 g, 1.95 mol) and triethylamine (490.0 g, 4.8 mol) in anhydrous ethanol (600 mL) was heated at reflux for 30 min. The solvent was removed in vacuo and the residue was purified by flash chromatography (DCM MeOH=30:1) to give 2-(chloromethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (39.0 g, 18% yield).

Step 3. Synthesis of 2-(morpholinomethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

A solution of 2-(chloromethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (30.0 g, 209 mmol), morpholine (23.7 g, 272 mmol) and triethylamine (42.3 g, 418 mmol) in anhydrous ethanol (250 mL) was heated at reflux for 16 h. The solvent was removed in vacuo and methanol (400 mL), H₂O (100 mL) and sodium bicarbonate (25.0 g) were added. Stirring was continued for 30 min. The mixture was concentrated and purified by flash chromatography (dichloromethane:methanol:triethylamine=100:8:0.5) to give 2-(morpholinomethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine (25.0 g, 62% yield).

Example 145. Preparation of tert-butyl 4-((4-aminopyrimidin-2-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate

tert-butyl 4-((4-aminopyrimidin-2-yl)methyl)piperazine-1-carboxylate was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-(morpholinomethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine.

Example 146. Preparation of 2-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine

2-(pyrrolidin-1-ylmethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine was prepared by a method similar to that reported for 2-(morpholinomethyl)pyrimidin-4-amine.

Example 147. Preparation of 4-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine

NaH (1.23 g, 0.03 mol) was washed with pentane and dried under vacuum for 15 min. THF (10 mL) was added to the flask under N₂ and the mixture was stirred. To this, (3-methyloxetan-3-yl) methanol (3.15 g, 0.03 mmol) was added dropwise. 10 mL of THF was added at room temp and solids were scraped to facilitate stirring. The dense mixture was stirred at room temp for 1 h. A slurry of 4-chloropyrimidin-2-amine (2.0 g, 0.02 mol) in THF was added to the reaction and it was refluxed for 15 h. After cooling to room temp, H₂O (100 mL) was added and the aqueous layer was extracted with EtOAc. The crude product was purified by flash chromatography (0-100% EtOAc+pentane). The recovered material was taken up in diethyl ether and the solid that separated was isolated by filtration to afford 4-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyrimidin-2-amine (1.9 g, 65%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₉H₁₃N₃O₂ 195.1; found 196.0 [M+H].

Example 148. Preparation of 6-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine

To 6-chloropyridin-2-amine (2.57 g, 20 mmol), (3-methyloxetan-3-yl) methanol (2.04 g, 20.0 mmol) and NaOH (8.0 g, 0.3 mol) was added 30 mL toluene. The mixture was heated at reflux under N₂ for 48 h. After cooling to room temp, H₂O (40 mL) was added, the layers were separated and the organic layer was washed with H₂O (15 mL), brine (30 mL) and dried over Na₂SO₄. After removing the solvent in vacuo, the crude product was purified by column chromatography to give 6-((3-methyloxetan-3-yl)methoxy)pyridin-2-amine (2.1 g, 54%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₄N₂O₂ 194.11; found 195.2 [M+H].

Example 149. Preparation of 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-4-amine

2-bromopyridin-4-amine (680.0 mg, 3.94 mmol) was taken up in 10 mL of dioxane along with 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (1.56 g, 15.6 mmol), sodium hydride (373.0 mg, 15.6 mmol). The resulting reaction mixture was stirred refluxed for 15 h, cooled to room temp, concentrated in vacuo and purified by chromatography (EtOAc: Pet ether (1:10)) to afford 2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)pyridin-4-amine (500.0 mg, 66.2%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₇H₇F₃N₂O 192.05.

Example 150. Preparation of 5-morpholinopyridin-3-amine

5-morpholinopyridin-3-amine was prepared from 3-chloro-5-nitropyridine using the same two-step procedure described above for the synthesis of 5-morpholinopyridin-2-amine.

Example 151. Preparation of 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-amine Step 1. Synthesis of 6-tosyl-2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane

To a solution of KOH (33.2 g, 0.59 mol) and p-tosylamide (37.9 g, 0.22 mol) in 600 mL ethanol, 3-Bromo-2,2-bis(bromomethyl)propan-1-ol (60.1 g, 0.19 mol) was added at room temp and the reaction mixture was heated to reflux for 90 h. The solvent was removed by evaporation, 500 mL 1M KOH was added and the white suspension was left to stir for another 2 h at room temp. The mixture was filtered and the white filter cake was rinsed with water until the washing water was neutral. The filter cake was dried under high vacuum to give 30.55 g of product containing 10 mol % of tosylamide as a white solid. The overall yield of pure 6-tosyl-2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane was calculated to be 27.4 g (58%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₅NO₃S: 253.3.

Step 2. Synthesis of 2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane oxalate

6-tosyl-2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptanes (7.30 g, 28.8 mol) and magnesium (4.9 g, 0.2 mol) were sonicated for one h in methanol (500 mL). Almost all solvent was removed from the grey reaction mixture on a rotary evaporator to give a viscous grey residue. Diethyl ether (500 mL) and sodium sulfate (15.0 g) were added and the resulting light grey mixture was stirred vigorously for 30 min before filtration. The filtrate was dried over anhydrous sodium sulfate and anhydrous oxalic acid (1.3 g, 14.4 mol) dissolved in ethanol (˜1 mL) was added to the organic phase. A thick white precipitate formed instantly. It was filtered off and dried under vacuum to give 2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane oxalate 3.37 g (81%) as amorphous white solid.

Step 3. Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)picolinate

2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane oxalate (20 g, 0.23 mol), ethyl 6-bromopicolinate (56.9 g, 0.25 mol) and K₂CO₃ (62 g, 0.454 mol) were dissolved in DMSO (100 mL). The suspension was heated to 140° C. After cooling to room temp, the reaction was poured into water and extracted with methylene chloride. The organic layer was evaporated to dryness and product was purified on a gel silica to afford ethyl 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)picolinate (7.2 g, 30%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₁₆N₂O₃: 248.1.

Step 4. Synthesis of 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)picolinic acid

Ethyl 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)picolinate (7.2 g, 0.03 mol) was dissolved in dioxane (50 mL), and NaOH (2.3 g, 0.06 mol) in water (50 mL) was added. The suspension was stirred at 50° C. for about 2 h. The solvent was removed and water (50 mL) was added. The pH was adjusted 5 to afford 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)picolinic acid (4.5 g, 70%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₁H₁₂N₂O₃: 220.1; found: 221.2 [M+H].

Step 5. Synthesis of tert-butyl (6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate

To a solution of 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)picolinic acid (4.4 g, 0.02 mol) in t-BuOH (50 mL) was added Et₃N (2.4 g, 0.02 mol) and DPPA (6.6 g, 0.024 mol). The mixture was refluxed overnight. After cooling to room temp, the solvent was evaporated and crude product was purified column chromatography to afford tert-butyl (6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate (4.0 g, 70%).

Step 6. Synthesis of 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-amine

To a solution of tert-butyl (6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate (4.4 g, 0.015 mol) in DCM (50 mL) was added CF₃COOH (20 mL). The mixture was stirred at room temp for about 4 h. The solvent was removed and CH₃CN (50 mL) was added. The pH was adjusted to 7. After evaporating the volatiles, 6-(2-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-amine was as obtained by purification on a silica gel column (2.05 g, 70%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₃N₃O: 191.1; found 192.2 [M+H].

Example 152. Preparation of N-(6-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide Step 1. Synthesis of tert-butyl 1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate

To a suspension of trimethylsulfoxonium iodide (80 g, 0.37 mol) in dry tert-BuOH (1.4 L) was added at 50° C. potassium tert-butoxide (41.3 g, 0.37 mmol), upon which the mixture turned to a cloudy suspension. The mixture was stirred at that temperature for 1.5 h, after which was added tert-butyl 3-oxoazetidine-1-carboxylate (25.0 g, 0.15 mmol). The suspension was stirred at 50° C. for 48 h. It was cooled to room temp and the mixture was partitioned between saturated aqueous NH₄Cl (30 mL) and EtOAc (50 mL). The phases were separated and the aqueous phase was extracted with EtOAc (50 mL). The combined organic phases were dried (Na₂SO₄), filtered, and concentrated in vacuo. tert-Butyl 1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate was obtained (8.0 g, 28%) after purification by flash chromatography on silica gel hexanes:EtOAc 2:1-0:1 gradient). MS (ESI) calcd for C₂₄H₁₉F₃N₆O₂: 199.1.

Step 2. Synthesis of 1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptanes TFA salt

To a solution of tert-butyl 1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptane-6-carboxylate (3.0 g, 15.06 mmol) in CH₂Cl₂ (10 mL) was added 2,2,2-trifluoroacetic acid (34.3 g, 301 mmol) and the mixture was stirred at 20° C. for 30 min. The volatiles were removed in vacuo. The residue 1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptanes TFA salt was used without further purification (2.5 g, 85%).

Step 3. Synthesis of tert-butyl (6-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate

A mixture of tert-butyl 6-bromopyridin-2-ylcarbamate (8.18 g, 30.0 mmol), 1-oxa-6-azoniaspiro[3.3]heptane (3.0 g, 30.0 mmol), DPPF (1.66 g, 3.00 mmol), Pd(OAc)₂ (0.34 g, 1.5 mmol), and Cs₂CO₃ (19.5 g, 59.9 mmol) in 50 mL of toluene was heated to 120° C. for 5 h in a sealed tube and cooled. After evaporation of the solvent tert-butyl (6-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-yl)carbamate was obtained by flash column chromatography (2.7 g, 23%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₂₁N₃O₃: 291.2.

Step 4. Synthesis 6-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-amine

To a solution of tert-butyl 6-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-ylcarbamate (2.0 g, 6.86 mmol) in 20 mL of methylene chloride was added 2,2,2-trifluoroacetic acid (7.83 g, 68.6 mmol) at room temp. The mixture was stirred for further 1 h and 50 ml of saturated aq. Na₂CO₃ was added. The organic phase was separated and concentrated. 6-(1-oxa-6-azaspiro[3.3]heptan-6-yl)pyridin-2-amine was obtained by flash column chromatography (900.0 mg, 69%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₀H₁₃N₃O: 191.1; found: 192.2.

Example 153. Preparation of 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine Step 1: Synthesis of 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide

To a slurry of 6-aminopicolinic acid (10.0 g, 72.5 mmol) in acetonitrile (150 mL) was added N,O-dimethylhydroxylamine hydrochloride (8.52 g, 87.0 mmol), 1-hydroxybenzotriazole (11.8 g, 87.0 mmol), N-(3-dimethylamino)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (16.7 g, 87.0 mmol), and N,N-diisopropylethylamine (37.7 mL, 217 mmol). The mixture was stirred at room temperature overnight, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between 1N NaOH and ethyl acetate, and the aqueous layer was extracted three times with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried with sodium sulfate, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The remaining residue was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate with 0.1% triethylamine) to give 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide (4.30 g, 23.7 mmol, 33% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₇N₃O: 181.1

Step 2: Synthesis of 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine

Lithium aluminum hydride (1.08 g, 28.5 mmol) was added to a solution of 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide (4.30 g, 23.7 mmol) in THF (30 mL). The reaction was stirred at room temperature for 90 min. Ethyl acetate (30 mL) was added slowly, the reaction was filtered, and the filtrate taken and all the solvent removed in vacuo to give 6-aminopicolinaldehyde, which was taken on crude to the next step.

To a solution of the above aldehyde in methanol (20 mL) was added p-toluenesulfonylmethyl isocyanide (13.9 g, 71.2 mmol) and potassium carbonate (19.4 g, 140 mmol). The reaction was stirred at reflux for 2 h, then all solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between ethyl acetate (150 mL) and water (70 mL). The organic layer was washed with brine, dried with sodium sulfate, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The remaining residue was purified by flash chromatography (10% methanol in dichloromethane) to give 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine (2.00 g, 12.4 mmol, 52% yield over two steps). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₁N₃O₂: 161.06

4-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine was made according to the same procedure described above for 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine, by substituting 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide with 2-aminoisonicotinic acid.

Example 154. Preparation of (S)-6-(3-methoxypyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 973)

A mixture of (S)-6-(3-methoxypyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100 mg, 0.38 mmol), HATU (290 mg, 0.76 mmol) and DIEA (0.12 mL, 0.82 mmol) in dry DCM (5 mL) was stirred at rt for 2 h, then evaporated to dryness under reduced pressure, the resulting residue was used directly for the next step. In another flask, pyrimidin-4-amine (40 mg, 0.42 mmol) was treated with NaH (64 mg, 2.6 mmol) in dry THF (5 mL) for 30 min, the crude active ester prepared above was added, stirred for another 2 h, cold water was added carefully, then extracted with ethyl acetate. The combined organic phase was dried over Na₂SO₄, concentrated. The crude product was purified by prep-TLC (DCM:MeOH=25:1) to give (S)-6-(3-methoxypyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (12.6 mg, yield 10%) MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₇N₇O₂ (m/z): 339.14.

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of (S)-6-(3-methoxypyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for pyrimidin-4-amine.

Example 155. Preparation of 6-(3,3-difluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-2-methyl-N-(pyridin-3-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 980)

6-(3,3-difluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-2-methylimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (100 mg, 0.35 mmol) was taken up in acetonitrile (2 mL). HATU (269 mg, 0.7 mmol) was added. After stirring for 2 min. 3-aminopyridine (66 mg, 0.7 mmol) and pyridine (0.5 mL) were added. The reaction was heated in a pressure tube at 100° C. for 17 h. After cooling to room temperature, water was added. The aqueous layer was extracted with dichloromethane. Combined organic layers were dried, concentrated and the crude product was purified by HPLC or silica gel column chromatography (yield 35 mg, 25%) MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₆F₂N₆O (m/z): 358.14; found 359.1 [M+H].

This general coupling procedure could be used to prepare a variety of 6-(3,3-difluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-2-methyl-N-(substituted)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3 carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine moiety for 3-aminopyridine.

Example 156. Preparation of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 966) Step 1: Synthesis of ethyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate

Ethyl 6-chloroimidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (600 mg, 2.66 mmol) and 2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidine (1 g, 7.19 mmol) were heated in a sealed tube at 173° C. for 16 h. After cooling to room temperature, water (100 mL) was added. The aqueous layer was extracted with ethyl acetate (2×100 mL). Combined organic layers were dried, concentrated and product was purified by column chromatography to afford ethyl 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylate (270 mg, 30%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₄H₁₅F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 328.1.

Step 2: Synthesis of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid

6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid was prepared using the same procedure that was used to make (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid described above. (yield 85%) MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₂H₁₁F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 300.08.

This general procedure, followed by standard ester hydrolysis could also be used to prepare (S)-6-(2-methylpyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid.

Step 3: Synthesis of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 966)

N-(pyridin-3-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide was prepared using the same procedure that was used to make (S)-6-(3-fluoropyrrolidin-1-yl)-N-(6-morpholinopyridin-2-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide described above (yield 89%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₅F₃N₆O (m/z): 376.1; found 377.1 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(substituted)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide by substituting the appropriate amine for 3-amino pyridine.

Example 157. Preparation of N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (Compound 970)

Carboxydiimidazole (33 mg, 0.2 mmol) was taken in a pressure tube and dissolved in dioxane (1 mL). A solution of 6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxylic acid (50 mg, 0.167 mmol) in DMA (1 mL) was added and heated to 100° C. for 15 h. After cooling to room temperature 2-aminopyrimidine (48 mg, 0.501 mmol) was added. Heating was continued at 100° C. for 2d. After cooling back to room temperature, water (20 mL) was added upon which a solid separated. The solid was separated by filtration, taken up in MeOH heated and filtered again to afford N-(pyrimidin-4-yl)-6-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)imidazo[1,2-b]pyridazine-3-carboxamide (29 mg, 46%). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₆H₁₄F₃N₇O (m/z): 377.1; found 378.1 [M+H].

Example 158. Preparation of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 945) Step 1) Synthesis of ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate

A suspension of ethyl 5-chloropyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (600 mg, 2.66 mmol) in 2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidine (2.5 mL) was heated at 125° C. for 12 h in a sealed tube. After cooling to room temperature the crude residue was purified by MPLC eluting with pentane/EtOAc (20-100%) to give ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate (575 mg, 63% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₅H₁₇F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 342.13.

Step 2) Synthesis of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1l-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid

A solution of LiOH (81 mg, 3.36 mmol) in H₂O (1.5 mL) was added to a solution of ethyl 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylate carboxylate (575 mg, 1.68 mmol) and LiOH (81 mg, 3.36 mmol) in THF/MeOH (9.5 mL, 1:1) was stirred at room temperature for 12 h. H₂O (3 mL) was added and the mixture was heated at 65° C. for 3 h. The mixture was concentrated, H₂O added and the pH was adjusted to 2. The mixture was extracted with CH₂Cl₂, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated. The crude product was recrystallized from heptane/EtOAc to give 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid. (429 mg, 81% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₃H₁₃F₃N₄O₂ (m/z): 314.10.

Step 3) Synthesis of N-(pyridin-3-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 945)

A mixture of 5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (50 mg, 0.16 mmol), 3-amino pyridine (30 mg, 0.32 mmol), pyridine (40 μL mg, 0.48 mmol), and HATU (73 mg, 0.19 mmol) in CH₃CN (10 mL) was heated at reflux for 16 h.

The mixture was poured into brine, extracted with CH₂Cl₂, dried (MgSO₄) and concentrated. The crude product was purified on MPLC eluting with CH₂Cl₂/MeOH (0-5%) then recrystallized from heptane/EtOAc to give N-(pyridin-3-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide. (48 mg, 77% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₈H₁₇F₃N₆O (m/z): 390.14, found: 391.1 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(substituted)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)piperidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide by substituting the appropriate amine for 3-amino pyridine.

Example 159. Preparation of (S)—N-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (Compound 1032)

A mixture of (S)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxylic acid (80 mg, 0.27 mmol), HATU (203 mg, 0.53 mmol) and DIEA (0.2 mL) in CH₂Cl₂ (15 mL) was stirred at room temperature for 0.5 h. The mixture was concentrated to dryness under reduced pressure at room temperature and used directly in the next step. In another flask, 4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-amine (88 mg, 0.53 mmol) was treated with NaH (>2eq) in dry THF for 15 min, the crude activated ester from above was added. Stirring was continued for another 1 h, ice-water was added carefully, then extracted with CH₂Cl₂. The combined organic phase was dried (Na₂SO₄) and concentrated. The crude product was purified by prep-TLC (CH₂Cl₂/MeOH, 25:1) to give (S)—N-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamide (28 mg, 23% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₁₇H₁₇F₃N₆OS (m/z): 410.11, found: 411.0 [M+H].

This general procedure could be used to prepare a variety of N-(substituted)-5-(2-(trifluoromethyl)pyrrolidin-1-yl)pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carboxamides by substituting the appropriate amine for 4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-amine.

Example 160 Preparation of 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine Step 1: Synthesis of 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide

To a slurry of 6-aminopicolinic acid (10.0 g, 72.5 mmol) in acetonitrile (150 mL) was added N,O-dimethylhydroxylamine hydrochloride (8.52 g, 87.0 mmol), 1-hydroxybenzotriazole (11.8 g, 87.0 mmol), N-(3-dimethylamino)-N′-ethylcarbodiimide hydrochloride (16.7 g, 87.0 mmol), and N,N-diisopropylethylamine (37.7 mL, 217 mmol). The mixture was stirred at room temperature overnight, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between 1N NaOH and ethyl acetate, and the aqueous layer was extracted three times with ethyl acetate. The combined organic layers were washed with brine, dried with sodium sulfate, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The remaining residue was purified by flash chromatography (ethyl acetate with 0.1% triethylamine) to give 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide (4.30 g, 23.7 mmol, 33% yield). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₇N₃O: 181.1

Step 2: Synthesis of 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine

Lithium aluminum hydride (1.08 g, 28.5 mmol) was added to a solution of 6-amino-N-methoxy-N-methylpicolinamide (4.30 g, 23.7 mmol) in THF (30 mL). The reaction was stirred at room temperature for 90 min. Ethyl acetate (30 mL) was added slowly, the reaction was filtered, and the filtrate taken and all the solvent removed in vacuo to give 6-aminopicolinaldehyde, which was taken on crude to the next step. To a solution of the above aldehyde in methanol (20 mL) was added p-toluenesulfonylmethyl isocyanide (13.9 g, 71.2 mmol) and potassium carbonate (19.4 g, 140 mmol). The reaction was stirred at reflux for 2 h, then all solvent removed in vacuo. The residue was partitioned between ethyl acetate (150 mL) and water (70 mL). The organic layer was washed with brine, dried with sodium sulfate, and the solvent removed in vacuo. The remaining residue was purified by flash chromatography (10% methanol in dichloromethane) to give 6-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine (2.00 g, 12.4 mmol, 52% yield over two steps). MS (ESI) calcd for C₈H₁₁N₃O₂: 161.06

4-(oxazol-5-yl)pyridin-2-amine

was prepared according to the same procedure provided above,

Example 160 Biological Activity

Mass spectrometry based assays were used to identify modulators of SIRT1 activity. The TAMRA based assay utilized a peptide having 20 amino acid residues as follows: Ac-EE-K(biotin)-GQSTSSHSK(Ac)NleSTEG-K(5TMR)-EE-NH₂ (SEQ ID NO: 1), wherein K(Ac) is an acetylated lysine residue and Nle is a norleucine. The peptide was labeled with the fluorophore 5TMR (excitation 540 nm/emission 580 nm) at the C-terminus. The sequence of the peptide substrate was based on p53 with several modifications. In addition, the methionine residue naturally present in the sequence was replaced with the norleucine because the methionine may be susceptible to oxidation during synthesis and purification. The Trp based assay utilized a peptide having an amino acid residues as follows: Ac-R-H-K-K(Ac)-W-NH₂ (SEQ ID NO: 2).

The TAMRA based mass spectrometry assay was conducted as follows: 0.5 μM peptide substrate and 120 μM βNAD⁺ was incubated with 10 nM SIRT1 for 25 minutes at 25° C. in a reaction buffer (50 mM Tris-acetate pH 8, 137 mM NaCl, 2.7 mM KCl, 1 mM MgCl₂, 5 mM DTT, 0.05% BSA). The SIRT1 protein was obtained by cloning the SirT1 gene into a T7-promoter containing vector, which was then transformed and expressed in BL21(DE3) bacterial cells. Test compound was added at varying concentrations to this reaction mixture and the resulting reactions were monitored. After the 25 minute incubation with SIRT1, 10 μL of 10% formic acid was added to stop the reaction. The resulting reactions were sealed and frozen for later mass spec analysis. Determination of the amount of deacetylated substrate peptide formed (or, alternatively, the amount of O-acetyl-ADP-ribose (OAADPR) generated) by the sirtuin-mediated NAD-dependent deacetylation reaction allowed for the precise measurement of relative SIRT1 activity in the presence of varying concentrations of the test compound versus control reactions lacking the test compound.

The Trp mass spectrometry assay was conducted as follows. 0.5 μM peptide substrate and 120 μM βNAD⁺ were incubated with 10 nM SIRT1 for 25 minutes at 25° C. in a reaction buffer (50 mM HEPES pH 7.5, 1500 mM NaCl, 1 mM DTT, 0.05% BSA). The SIRT1 protein was obtained by cloning the SirT1 gene into a T7-promoter containing vector, which was then expressed in BL21(DE3) bacterial cells and purified as described in further detail below. Test compound was added at varying concentrations to this reaction mixture and the resulting reactions were monitored. After the 25 minute incubation with SIRT1, 10 μL of 10% formic acid was added to stop the reaction. The resulting reactions were sealed and frozen for later mass spec analysis. The relative SIRT1 activity was then determined by measuring the amount of O-acetyl-ADP-ribose (OAADPR) formed (or, alternatively, the amount of deacetylated Trp peptide generated) by the NAD-dependent sirtuin deacetylation reaction in the presence of varying concentrations of the test compound versus control reactions lacking the test compound. The degree to which the test agent activated deacetylation by SIRT1 was expressed as EC_(1.5) (i.e., the concentration of compound required to increase SIRT1 activity by 50% over the control lacking test compound), and Percent Maximum Activation (i.e., the maximum activity relative to control (100%) obtained for the test compound).

A control for inhibition of sirtuin activity was conducted by adding 1 μL of 500 mM nicotinamide as a negative control at the start of the reaction (e.g., permits determination of maximum sirtuin inhibition). A control for activation of sirtuin activity was conducted using 10 nM of sirtuin protein, with 1 μL of DMSO in place of compound, to determine the amount of deacetylation of the substrate at a given time point within the linear range of the assay. This time point was the same as that used for test compounds and, within the linear range, the endpoint represents a change in velocity.

For the above assay, SIRT1 protein was expressed and purified as follows. The SirT1 gene was cloned into a T7-promoter containing vector and transformed into BL21(DE3). The protein was expressed by induction with 1 mM IPTG as an N-terminal His-tag fusion protein at 18° C. overnight and harvested at 30,000×g. Cells were lysed with lysozyme in lysis buffer (50 mM Tris-HCl, 2 mM Tris[2-carboxyethyl]phosphine (TCEP), 10 μM ZnCl₂, 200 mM NaCl) and further treated with sonication for 10 min for complete lysis. The protein was purified over a Ni-NTA column (Amersham) and fractions containing pure protein were pooled, concentrated and run over a sizing column (Sephadex S200 26/60 global). The peak containing soluble protein was collected and run on an Ion-exchange column (MonoQ). Gradient elution (200 mM-500 mM NaCl) yielded pure protein. This protein was concentrated and dialyzed against dialysis buffer (20 mM Tris-HCl, 2 mM TCEP) overnight. The protein was aliquoted and frozen at −80° C. until further use.

Sirtuin-modulating compounds of Formula (I) that activated SIRT1 were identified using the assay described above and are shown below in Table 1. The EC_(1.5) values represent the concentration of test compounds that result in 150% activation of SIRT1. The EC_(1.5) values for the activating compounds of Formula (I) are represented by A (EC_(1.5)<1 μM), B (EC_(1.5) 1-25 μM), C (EC_(1.5)>25 μM). The percent maximum fold activation is represented by A (Fold activation >350%) or B (Fold Activation <350%). “NT” means not tested; “ND” means not determinable.

TABLE 1 Compounds of Formula (I). TAMRA Trp % % Compound EC1.5 Fold EC1.5 Fold No [M + H]+_([Calc]) Structure (μM) Act (μM) Act 1 398

B B NT NT 2 384

B B A A 3 390

B B NT NT 4 384

B B NT NT 5 483

A A B B 6 489

A A NT NT 7 406

B B NT NT 8 400

B B B B 9 407

C B NT NT 10 401

B B NT NT 11 400

C B A A 12 394

C B NT NT 13 406

A A NT NT 14 400

A A B A 15 390

B A NT NT 16 384

A A NT NT 17 404

B B B B 18 385

B B NT NT 19 483

A A NT NT 20 489

A A B B 21 469

A A NT NT 22 453

A A NT NT 23 484

B A B B 24 469

B A NT NT 25 453

A A A A 26 449

A A C B 27 455

A A NT NT 28 433

A B NT NT 29 439

B B B B 30 451

B B NT NT 31 457

B B NT NT 32 366

B B B B 33 372

B B NT NT 34 465

A A B B 35 471

B B C B 36 451

A A NT NT 37 435

A A NT NT 38 466

B B C B 39 451

A A NT NT 40 435

A A NT NT 41 451

B B C B 42 457

B B NT NT 43 451

B B C B 44 457

B B B B 45 451

B B NT NT 46 457

B B NT NT 47 451

A A C B 48 457

B A NT NT 49 439

A A NT NT 50 439

A A A A 51 421

A A B A 52 421

A A NT NT 53 420

B B B B 54 404

C B NT NT 55 390

C B NT NT 56 405

B B B B 57 389

C B NT NT 58 416

B B NT NT 59 400

B B C B 60 452

A B NT NT 61 436

B B NT NT 62 422

B B C B 63 386

C B NT NT 64 408

NT NT NT NT 65 436

A B ND ND 66 454

A A NT NT 67 470

A A NT NT 68 452

B B B B 69 453

A A B A 70 467

A A NT NT 71 483

A A A A 72 465

A A NT NT 73 440

A B NT NT 74 475

A A A A 75 474

B A NT NT 76 489

B A NT NT 77 384

B A B B 78 398

A A A A 79 385

B A NT NT 80 385

B A C B 81 483

A A NT NT 82 469

A A NT NT 83 474

A A A A 84 385

B A B A 85 384

A A NT NT 86 384

C B C B 87 384

C B NT NT 88 385

A A NT NT 89 474

A A ND ND 90 385

A A NT NT 91 387

B A NT NT 92 387

B A C B 93 387

C B C B 94 350

B B NT NT 95 435

A A A B 96 405

A A NT NT 97 398

B A NT NT 98 398

B A B A 99 412

A A NT NT 100 402

A A NT NT 101 412

A A B A 102 398

A A B A 103 414

A A NT NT 104 427

A A B B 105 385

NT NT NT NT 106 385

B B NT NT 107 402

B A B B 108 384

B B NT NT 109 404

A A NT NT 110 402

A A B B 111 420

B B NT NT 112 387

B A B B 113 398

B B B B 114 374

B B NT NT 115 387

C B NT NT 116 449

A A C B 117 350

B B NT NT 118 350

B B NT NT 119 351

B B C B 120 470

A A B A 121 385

A A NT NT 122 390

A A B B 123 404

A A NT NT 124 453

A A NT NT 125 412

B B B B 126 455

A B B B 127 469

B B NT NT 128 370

C B C B 129 370

C B NT NT 130 371

NT NT NT NT 131 370

C B C B 132 425

C B NT NT 133 419

A A A B 134 389

A A C B 135 433

A A NT NT 136 334

B B NT NT 137 334

B B ND ND 138 334

B B NT NT 139 335

B B NT NT 140 467

A A B B 141 368

C B C B 142 368

B B NT NT 143 368

C B A B 144 439

A A NT NT 145 467

A A NT NT 146 474

A A B A 147 483

B B NT NT 148 483

C B NT NT 149 467

B B B B 150 489

B B B B 151 475

A A NT NT 152 404

A A A A 153 387

B A NT NT 154 431

B A NT NT 155 444

B B C B 156 458

B B NT NT 157 369

B B NT NT 158 453

A A ND ND 159 423

A B B B 160 467

B A NT NT 161 368

B B C B 162 368

B B NT NT 163 368

C B NT NT 164 453

A A B B 165 423

B A NT NT 166 352

C B NT NT 167 352

C B C B 168 437

A A ND ND 169 352

C B NT NT 170 407

A B B B 171 353

C B NT NT 172 451

B A C B 173 415

A A B A 174 429

A A NT NT 175 415

A A B A 176 469

A B NT NT 177 469

C B C B 178 453

A B NT NT 179 423

A B NT NT 180 467

B A ND ND 181 368

B B NT NT 182 368

B B B B 183 368

B B C B 184 369

B B NT NT 185 479

B B NT NT 186 449

B B C B 187 394

C B NT NT 188 394

C B NT NT 189 394

C B C B 190 395

NT NT NT NT 191 426

A B NT NT 192 483

A A A A 193 398

A A NT NT 194 398

A A NT NT 195 497

A A ND ND 196 445

A A NT NT 197 415

A A B B 198 445

A A B B 199 469

A A NT NT 200 341

B B NT NT 201 396

B A NT NT 202 440

B B NT NT 203 341

B B NT NT 204 341

NT NT NT NT 205 342

B B NT NT 206 398

B A B A 207 453

A A A A 208 399

A A NT NT 209 483

A A NT NT 210 398

B A B A 211 469

C B NT NT 212 474

A A NT NT 213 475

A A A A 214 467

C B C B 215 469

C B C B 216 469

B A NT NT 217 469

A A NT NT 218 390

A A B B 219 399

A A NT NT 220 418

A A NT NT 221 413

A A B B 222 497

A A NT NT 223 398

B A B A 224 398

B A B A 225 453

A A NT NT 226 475

B A NT NT 227 497

A A B A 228 440

A A NT NT 229 463

A A NT NT 230 406

A A C B 231 398

B A B B 232 398

A A NT NT 233 398

A A C B 234 398

A A NT NT 235 474

A A NT NT 236 474

A A A A 237 418

A A NT NT 238 413

A A C B 239 384

B A B A 240 384

A A NT NT 241 469

A A NT NT 242 348

B B B B 243 362

A A NT NT 244 364

B B A B 245 378

A A ND ND 246 399

B A NT NT 247 413

A A NT NT 248 467

B A B B 249 384

A A B B 250 384

C B NT NT 251 384

C B C B 252 385

B A NT NT 253 385

B A NT NT 254 385

B A C B 255 483

A A B B 256 469

A A NT NT 257 362

A B B B 258 432

C B NT NT 259 364

B A NT NT 260 378

A A B B 261 380

A B A B 262 448

C B NT NT 263 474

B A B B 264 482

B A NT NT 265 384

A A NT NT 266 385

B A B B 267 385

A A B B 268 385

A A NT NT 269 483

A A B A 270 399

A A NT NT 271 404

A A NT NT 272 432

A A B B 273 404

A A B A 274 427

A A NT NT 275 413

A A B B 276 399

A A NT NT 277 499

A A NT NT 278 489

B B NT NT 279 334

B B C B 280 335

B B NT NT 281 335

C B C B 282 335

B B NT NT 283 440

A B NT NT 284 424

C B C B 285 455

B B B B 286 439

B B NT NT 287 350

A A C B 288 351

B B NT NT 289 351

B B NT NT 290 351

B A C B 291 356

B A C B 292 370

A A NT NT 293 384

A A C B 294 356

B B NT NT 295 484

A A NT NT 296 482

B B B B 297 475

A A B B 298 340

B B NT NT 299 354

B B ND ND 300 368

A B NT NT 301 419

A A NT NT 302 389

A A ND ND 303 340

B B C B 304 354

B B NT NT 305 424

B B A B 306 370

B A NT NT 307 435

A A NT NT 308 405

A A A B 309 440

A A A B 310 497

A A NT NT 311 483

A A A A 312 400

A A NT NT 313 401

A A NT NT 314 401

A A B B 315 401

A A B A 316 406

A A NT NT 317 420

A A C B 318 434

A A NT NT 319 406

A A NT NT 320 420

A A B B 321 485

A A A A 322 455

A A NT NT 323 490

A A A A 324 400

B B NT NT 325 483

B B NT NT 326 393

A A A B 327 377

A A A B 328 341

A A NT NT 329 342

B B C B 330 342

B B NT NT 331 342

B A NT NT 332 347

B B C B 333 361

B A ND ND 334 375

A A NT NT 335 347

B B B B 336 361

B A NT NT 337 426

A A NT NT 338 396

A A A B 339 431

A A A B 340 485

A A A A 341 428

C B NT NT 342 401

C ND NT NT 343 414

C B NT NT 344 490

B B NT NT 345 491

B A NT NT 346 364

B B C B 347 365

C B NT NT 348 365

C B C B 349 365

C B NT NT 350 370

C B NT NT 351 384

B B C B 352 398

B B C B 353 370

B B NT NT 354 384

B B C B 355 449

A A NT NT 356 419

A B NT NT 357 454

C B C B 358 401

A A B A 359 418

B A NT NT 360 418

B B A B 361 440

A A NT NT 362 401

A A NT NT 363 428

A A A B 364 414

A A A A 365 428

B B NT NT 366 414

B B NT NT 367 491

A A NT NT 368 406

B A NT NT 369 420

A A B A 370 420

B A ND ND 371 434

A A NT NT 372 491

A A A B 373 406

B B NT NT 374 420

B B NT NT 375 398

B A C B 376 399

B B NT NT 377 399

B B C B 378 399

B A NT NT 379 432

B A NT NT 380 404

B A C B 381 418

B A C B 382 483

A A NT NT 383 453

A A B A 384 488

B B NT NT 385 398

A A NT NT 386 447

A A B B 387 502

A A A A 388 407

A A NT NT 389 399

A A B B 390 485

A A NT NT 391 517

A A NT NT 392 398

C B C B 393 398

B B C B 394 412

B B NT NT 395 401

A A A A 396 415

A A NT NT 397 420

A B NT NT 398 429

A A B B 399 429

B A NT NT 400 500

A A NT NT 401 415

A A A A 402 468

A A NT NT 403 432

A A NT NT 404 404

B B NT NT 405 418

B A NT NT 406 488

A A A A 407 398

A A B A 408 399

A A NT NT 409 399

A A ND ND 410 399

A A NT NT 411 404

A A NT NT 412 418

A A A A 413 432

A A A B 414 404

A A NT NT 415 434

A A B A 416 420

A A NT NT 417 434

A A NT NT 418 434

B B C B 419 428

A A A A 420 441

A A NT NT 421 481

A A A A 422 502

A A NT NT 423 474

A A NT NT 424 418

A A B B 425 483

A A A A 426 453

A A NT NT 427 488

A A A A 428 413

A A A A 429 440

A A NT NT 430 431

A A A A 431 414

A A B B 432 440

A A NT NT 433 418

A A C B 434 404

A A NT NT 435 483

A A NT NT 436 412

A A C B 437 414

A A A A 438 451

A A NT NT 439 402

A A A B 440 420

A A NT NT 441 398

A A NT NT 442 399

A A C B 443 399

A A C B 444 399

A A NT NT 445 432

A A B B 446 404

A A NT NT 447 418

A A NT NT 448 453

A A B A 449 488

A A A A 450 384

B A NT NT 451 384

B A B A 452 385

A A NT NT 453 385

B A NT NT 454 469

A A A A 455 384

B B C B 456 469

A A NT NT 457 446

A A A B 458 426

A A NT NT 459 426

A A NT NT 460 413

A A A A 461 399

A A B A 462 399

A A NT NT 463 399

A A B A 464 416

A A NT NT 465 416

A A NT NT 466 432

A A A A 467 400

B A B B 468 503

A A NT NT 469 415

A A B A 470 415

A A NT NT 471 415

A A NT NT 472 432

B B C B 473 430

A A A A 474 430

A A NT NT 475 441

A A B A 476 429

A A NT NT 477 445

A A NT NT 478 429

A A A A 479 429

A A NT NT 480 442

A A B B 481 442

A A A A 482 462

A A NT NT 483 384

NT NT NT NT 484 385

B B C B 485 400

B B NT NT 486 414

A A A A 487 412

B B A A 488 412

B A NT NT 489 430

B B A A 490 355

B A B B 491 355

B B NT NT 492 373

B B NT NT 493 456

A A ND ND 494 446

A A NT NT 495 446

A B ND ND 496 414

A A A B 497 414

A A NT NT 498 398

A A NT NT 499 398

A A A A 500 398

A A NT NT 501 398

A A NT NT 502 412

A A ND ND 503 413

A A NT NT 504 412

A A NT NT 505 385

A A B B 506 390

A A NT NT 507 404

A A B B 508 404

A A A A 509 418

A A NT NT 510 437

B B NT NT 511 437

B B B B 512 380

B B NT NT 513 380

B B C B 514 399

A A A A 515 399

A A NT NT 516 426

A A B B 517 402

B A B B 518 402

A A B B 519 415

A A NT NT 520 400

B B NT NT 521 414

A A A B 522 398

A A NT NT 523 398

A A C B 524 412

A A C B 525 404

A A NT NT 526 418

A A NT NT 527 404

A A B B 528 426

A A NT NT 529 400

A A A B 530 400

A A A A 531 400

A A NT NT 532 401

A A NT NT 533 401

A A B B 534 485

A A NT NT 535 499

A A A A 536 430

A A A B 537 481

A A NT NT 538 481

A A NT NT 539 412

A A ND ND 540 412

A A NT NT 541 416

A A B A 542 416

A A B B 543 443

A A NT NT 544 509

A A NT NT 545 525

A A A A 546 495

A A NT NT 547 399

A A NT NT 548 398

A A ND ND 549 398

A A B A 550 497

A A NT NT 551 428

A A A A 552 483

A A A A 553 474

A A NT NT 554 474

A A NT NT 555 475

A A A A 556 475

A A NT NT 557 488

A A NT NT 558 488

A A A A 559 401

B B B A 560 398

A A NT NT 561 426

B B B A 562 509

A A NT NT 563 390

A A NT NT 564 327

B B NT NT 565 341

B A B B 566 355

B A B B 567 398

B B NT NT 568 398

C B C B 569 398

C B NT NT 570 399

B B NT NT 571 399

C B B B 572 399

C B C B 573 497

B B NT NT 574 483

A A B B 575 414

C B NT NT 576 428

C B NT NT 577 414

B B A B 578 476

A A A A 579 419

B B NT NT 580 416

B A A A 581 400

A A NT NT 582 400

B B NT NT 583 400

B B C B 584 401

B A C B 585 401

B A NT NT 586 413

A A A A 587 499

A A NT NT 588 432

B B NT NT 589 442

B A B B 590 428

B B C B 591 434

A A A B 592 482

A A NT NT 593 513

A A NT NT 594 421

B B B B 595 429

A B NT NT 596 443

A A NT NT 597 421

B B A B 598 485

A A A A 600 429

A A A A 601 485

A A NT NT 602 429

A A NT NT 603 420

B A B B 604 414

A A B B 605 428

A A NT NT 606 418

A A A B 607 406

B B NT NT 608 414

C B NT NT 609 418

C B C B 610 414

B B A A 611 428

A A NT NT 612 414

A A A A 613 428

A B NT NT 614 434

A A NT NT 615 457

A A A A 616 414

A A A A 617 414

A A NT NT 618 398

A A B A 619 398

A A NT NT 620 412

B B NT NT 621 414

A A A A 622 414

B B A A 623 415

A A NT NT 624 401

A A A A 625 428

B B NT NT 626 444

A A NT NT 627 473

A A A A 628 412

A A A A 629 412

A A NT NT 630 398

B B A A 631 398

A A NT NT 632 398

A A NT NT 633 415

A A B B 634 459

A A A A 635 431

A A NT NT 636 445

A A B B 637 412

A A NT NT 638 412

A A NT NT 639 426

A A A A 640 398

B B B B 641 412

B A NT NT 642 402

A A B A 643 428

A A NT NT 644 415

A A B B 645 475

A A A A 646 468

A A NT NT 647 468

A A A A 648 426

A A NT NT 649 412

A B NT NT 650 418

A A A A 651 432

A A NT NT 652 418

A A NT NT 653 398

C B B A 654 399

A A B B 655 399

A A NT NT 656 420

B A B B 657 415

NT NT NT NT 658 429

A A NT NT 659 429

A A B B 660 418

A A NT NT 661 428

B B NT NT 662 473

A B NT NT 663 459

A A B B 664 413

A A NT NT 665 429

A A B B 666 443

A A NT NT 667 400

A A NT NT 668 468

A A A B 669 468

A A NT NT 670 429

A A NT NT 671 428

A A A A 672 443

B B B B 673 432

A A NT NT 674 415

B B B A 675 401

C B NT NT 676 432

A A NT NT 677 429

NT NT NT NT 678 445

NT NT NT NT 679 459

NT NT NT NT 680 429

B B B A 681 413

C B B A 682 413

A A NT NT 683 412

A A A A 684 412

A A NT NT 685 426

A A NT NT 686 416

A A A B 687 412

B B NT NT 688 429

B A B B 689 429

C B NT NT 690 436

C B NT NT 691 544

A A NT NT 692 359

A B A B 693 429

NT NT NT NT 694 359

B A B B 695 399

A A A A 696 429

A A NT NT 697 443

A A NT NT 698 426

A A A A 699 412

A B NT NT 700 415

NT NT NT NT 701 414

B B A A 702 420

A A NT NT 703 431

A A NT NT 704 401

A A B B 705 401

A A NT NT 706 349

B B A B 707 442

A A A A 708 426

B A NT NT 709 404

A A NT NT 710 413

A A A A 711 417

A A NT NT 712 414

NT NT NT NT 713 434

B A B B 714 414

A A NT NT 715 365

B A NT NT 716 363

B B A B 717 370

NT NT NT NT 718 445

A B C B 719 459

NT NT ND ND 720 375

B A NT NT 721 389

B B NT NT 722 412

B B A A 723 399

A A NT NT 724 413

C B B B 725 414

A A B B 726 415

A A NT NT 727 429

A A NT NT 728 443

A A C B 729 427

A A NT NT 730 455

A A A A 731 469

A A A B 732 453

A A NT NT 733 457

A A NT NT 734 415

B A C B 735 417

B A NT NT 736 429

A A C B 737 413

A A A A 738 484

A A NT NT 739 363

NT NT NT NT 740 379

NT NT ND ND 741 393

B B NT NT 742 379

A B C B 743 395

B B C B 744 409

A B NT NT 745 529

A A NT NT 746 398

A A C B 747 402

A A NT NT 748 451

A A B B 749 420

A A B B 750 428

A A NT NT 751 430

A A NT NT 752 420

B A B B 753 427

B A NT NT 754 418

A A B B 755 436

A A B B 756 420

B A NT NT 757 448

B A NT NT 758 438

A A B B 759 375

A B NT NT 760 389

A B ND ND 761 379

C B A B 762 393

B B NT NT 763 409

A A NT NT 764 423

A A ND ND 765 439

A A NT NT 766 345

A B A B 767 349

B B A A 768 416

A A NT NT 769 467

A A NT NT 770 474

B A C B 771 448

A A NT NT 772 420

B A B A 773 489

A A A A 774 421

A B NT NT 775 421

A A NT NT 776 417

B A C B 777 427

A A NT NT 778 429

A A A B 779 416

A A A A 780 460

A A NT NT 781 406

B A NT NT 782 420

A A C B 783 475

A A NT NT 784 414

A A A A 785 406

B A C B 786 443

A A NT NT 787 427

A A NT NT 788 434

B A B A 789 416

A A NT NT 790 434

A A A A 791 448

A A B B 792 434

A A NT NT 793 429

A A NT NT 794 399

A A B B 795 413

A A NT NT 796 427

A A B B 797 431

A A A A 798 434

A A NT NT 799 445

NT NT NT NT 800 399

B A C B 801 413

A A NT NT 802 390

B A C B 803 404

B A C B 804 420

A A NT NT 805 434

A A NT NT 806 413

A A B A 807 429

A A NT NT 808 432

A A B B 809 458

A A C B 810 444

A A NT NT 811 420

A A NT NT 812 406

A A A A 813 401

A A NT NT 814 424

B A B B 815 420

A A A A 816 434

A A A A 817 434

A A NT NT 818 449

A A B B 819 438

A A NT NT 820 426

B A B B 821 438

B B A B 822 438

A B NT NT 823 440

A B A B 824 422

B A A A 825 422

NT NT ND ND 826 436

B A A B 827 422

A A A B 828 401

A A C B 829 440

A A A B 830 401

A A C B 831 424

B A B B 832 435

A A B B 833 407

B A B B 834 516

NT NT A A 835 506

NT NT A A 836 327

NT NT B A 837 327

NT NT B B 838 345

NT NT B B 839 345

NT NT B B 840 341

NT NT B A 841 341

NT NT A A 842 488

NT NT A A 843 506

NT NT A A 844 359

NT NT B B 845 342

NT NT B B 846 359

NT NT A B 847 406

NT NT A A 848 420

NT NT A A 849 502

NT NT A A 850 517

NT NT A A 851 328

NT NT B B 852 342

NT NT B A 853 328

NT NT C B 854 328

NT NT B B 855 342

NT NT B A 856 328

NT NT B B 857 342

NT NT A A 858 406

NT NT B B 859 502

NT NT A A 860 516

NT NT A A 861 508

NT NT A A 862 488

NT NT A A 863 488

NT NT A A 864 502

NT NT A A 865 502

NT NT A A 866 352

NT NT B A 867 366

NT NT B A 868 352

NT NT B B 869 370

NT NT B B 870 384

NT NT C B 871 367

NT NT B B 872 384

NT NT C B 873 353

NT NT B A 874 370

NT NT A B 875 420

NT NT C B 876 449

NT NT A A 877 366

NT NT B B 878 449

NT NT B B 879 353

NT NT B B 880 367

NT NT B B 881 367

NT NT C B 882 353

NT NT B B 883 424

NT NT A B 884 424

NT NT B B 885 367

NT NT B B 886 353

NT NT B B 887 407

NT NT A B 888 328

NT NT C B 889 341

NT NT B B 890 345

NT NT B B 891 330

NT NT B A 892 361

NT NT A B 893 356

NT NT C B 894 310

NT NT B B 895 310

NT NT C B 896 309

NT NT B B 897 327

NT NT C B 898 327

NT NT C B 900 409

NT NT A B 901 405

NT NT A A 902 392

NT NT A A 903 363

NT NT C B 904 346

NT NT B A 905 346

NT NT B B 906 346

NT NT B B 907 363

NT NT B B 908 345

NT NT B B 909 345

NT NT B A 910 409

NT NT A A 911 370

NT NT A A 912 331

NT NT B B 913 331

NT NT B B 914 349

NT NT C B 915 349

NT NT C B 916 332

NT NT C B 917 418

NT NT B B 918 358

NT NT B B 919 395

NT NT C B 920 341

NT NT B B 921 332

NT NT C B 922 358

NT NT C B 923 371

NT NT A A 924 371

NT NT B B 926 332

NT NT C B 927 359

NT NT B A 928 359

NT NT B B 929 377

NT NT B A 930 360

NT NT B A 931 409

NT NT A A 932 391

NT NT A A 933 339

NT NT B B 934 339

NT NT B B 935 357

NT NT B B 936 357

NT NT B B 937 357

NT NT B A 938 325

NT NT B B 939 343

NT NT B B 940 325

NT NT C B 941 343

NT NT B B 942 326

NT NT B B 943 343

NT NT B B 944 340

NT NT B B 945 391

NT NT A A 946 338

NT NT C B 947 355

NT NT B B 948 337

NT NT B B 949 355

NT NT C B 950 338

NT NT C B 951 355

NT NT C B 952 336

NT NT B A 953 336

NT NT A A 954 354

NT NT B B 955 337

NT NT B A 956 354

NT NT B B 957 390

NT NT A A 958 376

NT NT A A 959 394

NT NT A A 960 354

NT NT A B 961 325

NT NT C B 962 376

NT NT B B 963 376

NT NT B B 964 359

NT NT B B 965 424

NT NT B A 966 376

NT NT A A 967 394

NT NT B A 968 377

NT NT A A 969 410

NT NT A A 970 377

NT NT A A 971 338

NT NT C B 972 337

NT NT B B 973 339

NT NT C B 974 376

NT NT A A 975 322

NT NT B B 976 322

NT NT B A 977 340

NT NT B B 978 323

NT NT A A 979 340

NT NT A A 980 358

NT NT B A 981 324

NT NT B B 982 324

NT NT B B 983 342

NT NT B B 984 325

NT NT B B 985 342

NT NT B B 986 340

NT NT A A 987 340

NT NT B A 988 358

NT NT B A 989 341

NT NT B A 990 358

NT NT A A 991 376

NT NT B B 992 323

NT NT C B 993 341

NT NT B A 994 373

NT NT A A 995 352

NT NT B A 996 353

NT NT B A 997 370

NT NT B A 998 391

NT NT A A 999 376

NT NT A A 1000 376

NT NT A A 1001 394

NT NT A A 1002 338

NT NT B A 1003 339

NT NT B A 1004 356

NT NT B A 1005 359

NT NT A A 1006 391

NT NT B A 1007 390

NT NT A A 1008 390

NT NT B A 1009 408

NT NT A A 1010 408

NT NT A A 1011 376

NT NT A A 1012 376

NT NT A A 1013 394

NT NT A A 1014 377

NT NT A A 1015 390

NT NT A A 1016 390

NT NT A A 1017 408

NT NT A A 1018 391

NT NT A A 1019 376

NT NT B A 1020 429

NT NT A A 1021 391

NT NT B A 1022 377

NT NT B A 1023 391

NT NT B A 1024 407

NT NT A A 1025 377

NT NT A A 1026 376

NT NT A A 1027 390

NT NT A A 1028 394

NT NT A A 1029 376

NT NT A A 1030 377

NT NT A A 1031 377

NT NT A A 1032 410

NT NT A A 1033 424

NT NT A A 1034 391

NT NT A A 1035 390

NT NT A A 1036 404

NT NT A A 1037 322

NT NT B A 1038 356

NT NT B B 1039 340

NT NT B A 1040 323

NT NT B A 1041 323

NT NT B B 1042 323

NT NT B B 1043 353

NT NT B B 1044 322

NT NT B A 1045 336

NT NT B B 1046 391

NT NT A A 1047 390

NT NT A A 1048 391

NT NT A A 1049 421

NT NT A A 1050 408

NT NT A A 1051 353

NT NT C B 1052 340

NT NT B B 1053 322

NT NT B A 1054 323

NT NT C B 1055 323

NT NT B A 1056 322

NT NT B B 1057 323

NT NT C B 1058 336

NT NT B B 1059 340

NT NT B B 1060 390

NT NT A A 1061 391

NT NT B A 1062 391

NT NT A A 1063 391

NT NT A A 1064 421

NT NT A A 1065 424

NT NT B A 1066 390

NT NT A A 1067 408

NT NT B A 1068 391

NT NT B A 1069 408

NT NT A A 1070 390

NT NT B A 1071 390

NT NT A A 1072 404

NT NT A A 1073 404

NT NT A A 1074 457

NT NT A A 1075 391

NT NT B A 1076 376

NT NT B A 1077 390

NT NT A A 1078 377

NT NT B A 1079 377

NT NT B A 1080 407

NT NT A B 1081 443

NT NT A A 1082 424

NT NT A A 1083 457

NT NT A A 1084 391

NT NT B A 1085 421

NT NT A A 1086 457

NT NT A A 1087 457

NT NT A A 1088 410

NT NT B A 1089 394

NT NT B B 1090 376

NT NT C B 1091 443

NT NT B A 1092 429

NT NT A A 1093 377

NT NT B B 1094 445

NT NT B A 1095 432

NT NT B A 1096 436

NT NT A A 1097 431

NT NT B A 1098 443

NT NT A A 1099 443

NT NT A A

In certain embodiments, the compound is any one of Compound Numbers 14, 94, 97, 98, 99, 100, 105, 119, 143, 159, 164, 165, 224, 225, 226, 230, 233, 301, 308, 318, 342, 344, 355, 370, 379, 424, 474, 479, 537, 577, 581, 586, 601, 638, 661, 665, 668, 684, 703, 761, 801, 806, 811, 812, 870, 880, 890, 918, 924, 925 928, 945, 953, 957, 958, 959, 966, 968, 969, 970, 974, 978, 979, 986, 990, 994, 998, 999, 1000, 1001, 1005, 1007, 1009, 1010, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1015, 1016, 1017, 1018, 1020, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1027, 1028, 1029, 1030, 1031, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1036, 1046, 1047, 1048, 1049, 1050, 1060, 1062, 1063, 1064, 1066, 1069, 1071, 1072, 1073, 1074, 1077, 1080, 1081, 1082, 1083, 1085, 1086, 1087, 1092, 1096 and 1098.

EQUIVALENTS

The present invention provides among other things sirtuin-modulating compounds and methods of use thereof. While specific embodiments of the subject invention have been discussed, the above specification is illustrative and not restrictive. Many variations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this specification. The full scope of the invention should be determined by reference to the claims, along with their full scope of equivalents, and the specification, along with such variations.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications and patents mentioned herein, including those items listed below, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety as if each individual publication or patent was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. In case of conflict, the present application, including any definitions herein, will control. Also incorporated by reference in their entirety are any polynucleotide and polypeptide sequences which reference an accession number correlating to an entry in a public database, such as those maintained by The Institute for Genomic Research (TIGR) (www.tigr.org) and/or the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). 

We claim:
 1. A method of increasing sirtuin-1 activity in a cell comprising the step of contacting the cell with a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent and a compound of formula (I)

wherein: one of D and E is N and the other is C; and when D is N, one of A and B is N and the other is CR; and when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR; or a salt thereof, wherein: each R is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, OH, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₂-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, OR³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, S—(C₁-C₂ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₅-C₇ cycloalkyl, and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle, and when one or both of E and A is N, then R can additionally be selected from halo-substituted methyl and C₃-C₄ cycloalkyl; R¹ is an aromatic heterocycle or a fused carbocycle, wherein R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR^(x)R^(x)—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), CR^(x)R^(x), phenyl, O-phenyl, second heterocycle, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle, or second heterocycle substituent of R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ lkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl); R² is a carbocycle or a heterocycle, wherein R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, —O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O-phenyl, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and when E is N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from a second heterocycle, and when both D and A are N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from phenyl and a second heterocycle, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle or second heterocycle substituent of R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl); each R³ is independently selected from hydrogen and C₁-C₄ alkyl optionally substituted with one or more of OH, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), halo, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂ and N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂; or two R³ are taken together with the nitrogen or carbon atom to which they are bound to form a 4- to 8-membered saturated heterocycle optionally comprising one additional heteroatom independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the heterocycle formed by two R³ is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, —O(C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), or N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; two R^(x) taken together with the carbon atom to which they are bound form a 4- to 8-membered carbocycle or heterocycle optionally comprising one or two heteroatoms independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the carbocycle or heterocycle is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, and N(R³)(R³) and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; and when D is N, A is CR and B is N, then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵-†; and when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CH₂—NH—C(═O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O—† and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵—; and when D is N, A is N and B is CR then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)†, NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, C(═O)—NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, —NH—C(═O)O—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH† and CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O-†; wherein: † represents where X is bound to R¹; and each R⁴ and R⁵ is independently selected from hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alkyl, CF₃ and (C₁-C₃ alkyl)-CF₃.
 2. A method for treating a subject suffering from or susceptible to insulin resistance, a metabolic syndrome, diabetes, or complications thereof, or for increasing insulin sensitivity in a subject, comprising administering to the subject in need thereof of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent and a compound of formula (I):

wherein: one of D and E is N and the other is C; and when D is N, one of A and B is N and the other is CR; and when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR; or a salt thereof, wherein: each R is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, OH, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₂-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, OR³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, S—(C₁-C₂ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₅-C₇ cycloalkyl, and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle, and when one or both of E and A is N, then R can additionally be selected from halo-substituted methyl and C₃-C₄ cycloalkyl; R¹ is an aromatic heterocycle or a fused carbocycle, wherein R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR^(x)R^(x)—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), CR^(x)R^(x), phenyl, O-phenyl, second heterocycle, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle, or second heterocycle substituent of R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ lkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl); R² is a carbocycle or a heterocycle, wherein R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, —O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O-phenyl, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and when E is N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from a second heterocycle, and when both D and A are N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from phenyl and a second heterocycle, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle or second heterocycle substituent of R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl); each R³ is independently selected from hydrogen and C₁-C₄ alkyl optionally substituted with one or more of OH, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), halo, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂ and N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂; or two R³ are taken together with the nitrogen or carbon atom to which they are bound to form a 4- to 8-membered saturated heterocycle optionally comprising one additional heteroatom independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the heterocycle formed by two R³ is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, —O(C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), or N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; two R^(x) taken together with the carbon atom to which they are bound form a 4- to 8-membered carbocycle or heterocycle optionally comprising one or two heteroatoms independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the carbocycle or heterocycle is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, and N(R³)(R³) and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; and when D is N, A is CR and B is N, then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵-†; and when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CH₂—NH—C(═O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O—† and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵—; and when D is N, A is N and B is CR then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)†, NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, C(═O)—NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, —NH—C(═O)O—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH—, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH† and CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O-†; wherein: † represents where X is bound to R¹; and each R⁴ and R⁵ is independently selected from hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alkyl, CF₃ and (C₁-C₃ alkyl)-CF₃.
 3. A method for treating a subject suffering from or susceptible to diseases or disorders related to aging or stress, diabetes, obesity, neurodegenerative diseases, chemotherapeutic-induced neuropathy, neuropathy associated with an ischemic event, ocular diseases and/or disorders, cardiovascular disease, blood clotting disorders, inflammation, and/or flushing, comprising administering to the subject in need thereof of a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or diluent and a compound of formula (I):

wherein: one of D and E is N and the other is C; and when D is N, one of A and B is N and the other is CR; and when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR; or a salt thereof, wherein: each R is independently selected from hydrogen, halo, OH, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₂-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, OR³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, S—(C₁-C₂ alkyl), S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), C₅-C₇ cycloalkyl, and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle, and when one or both of E and A is N, then R can additionally be selected from halo-substituted methyl and C₃-C₄ cycloalkyl; R¹ is an aromatic heterocycle or a fused carbocycle, wherein R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR^(x)R^(x)—(C₀-C₄ alkyl), CR^(x)R^(x), phenyl, O-phenyl, second heterocycle, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle, or second heterocycle substituent of R¹ is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ lkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl); R² is a carbocycle or a heterocycle, wherein R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, C₁-C₄ alkoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₈ alkyl, O—R³, —O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-OR³, ═O, C₃-C₇ cycloalkyl, SO₂R³, S—R³, (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), N(R³)(R³), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), O—(C₀-C₄ alkyl)-CR³R³(C₀-C₄ alkyl), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl)-N(R³)(R³), C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), (C₁-C₄ alkyl)-C(═O)—N(R³)(R³), O-phenyl, O-(second heterocycle), 3,4-methylenedioxy, halo-substituted 3,4-methylenedioxy, 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and halo-substituted 3,4-ethylenedioxy, and when E is N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from a second heterocycle, and when both D and A are N, substituents on R² can additionally be selected from phenyl and a second heterocycle, wherein any phenyl, saturated heterocycle or second heterocycle substituent of R² is optionally substituted with one or more substituents independently selected from halo, C≡N, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, O-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), S—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), and S-(halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl); each R³ is independently selected from hydrogen and C₁-C₄ alkyl optionally substituted with one or more of OH, O—(C₁-C₄ alkyl), halo, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂ and N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂; or two R³ are taken together with the nitrogen or carbon atom to which they are bound to form a 4- to 8-membered saturated heterocycle optionally comprising one additional heteroatom independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the heterocycle formed by two R³ is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, NH(C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, —O(C₁-C₄ alkyl), NH(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), N(hydroxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂NH(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl), or N(methoxy-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl)₂, and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; two R^(x) taken together with the carbon atom to which they are bound form a 4- to 8-membered carbocycle or heterocycle optionally comprising one or two heteroatoms independently selected from N, S, S(═O), S(═O)₂, and O, wherein the carbocycle or heterocycle is optionally substituted at any carbon atom with one or more of OH, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl, NH₂, and N(R³)(R³) and optionally substituted at any substitutable nitrogen atom with C₁-C₄ alkyl or halo-substituted C₁-C₄ alkyl; and when D is N, A is CR and B is N, then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵-†; and when E is N, B is N and A is N or CR then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(═O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CH₂—NH—C(═O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O—† and NH—C(═O)—O—CR⁴R⁵—; and when D is N, A is N and B is CR then X is selected from C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)†, NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, C(═O)—NH—CR⁴R⁵-†, S(═O)—NH-†, S(═O)₂—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH-†, —NH—C(═O)O—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH-†, NH—C(═S)-†, C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)-†, NH—S(═O)₂-†, NH—S(═O)₂—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—S(O)₂—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—O-†, O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—NR⁴-†, NR⁴—C(═O)—NH-†, CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(O)-†, NH—C(═S)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—C(═S)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)—NH-†, NH—S(═O)₂—CR⁴R⁵-†, CR⁴R⁵—S(═O)₂—NH—, CR⁴R⁵—O—C(═O)—NH-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵-†, NH—C(═O)—CR⁴R⁵—NH† and CR⁴R⁵—NH—C(═O)—O-†; wherein: † represents where X is bound to R¹; and each R⁴ and R⁵ is independently selected from hydrogen, C₁-C₄ alkyl, CF₃ and (C₁-C₃ alkyl)-CF₃.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein both E and B are N, and A is N or CR.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein A is N.
 6. The method of claim 4, wherein A is CR.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein both D and B are N and A is CR.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein both A and D are N and B is CR.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein R is selected from hydrogen, halo, C₁-C₄ alkyl, 0-R³ and 4- to 8-membered non-aromatic heterocycle.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein R¹ is selected from optionally substituted


11. The method of claim 10, wherein R¹ is selected from


12. The method of claim 11, wherein R¹ is selected from


13. The method of claim 1, wherein R² is selected from optionally substituted


14. The method of claim 13, wherein R² is selected from


15. The method of claim 12, wherein R² is selected from:


16. The method of claim 1, wherein R² is selected from optionally substituted carbocycle and optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle.
 17. The method of claim 1, wherein R² is selected from optionally substituted aromatic carbocycle and optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle.
 18. The method of claim 1, wherein R² is selected from optionally substituted non-aromatic carbocycle and optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle.
 19. The method of claim 16 wherein R² is an optionally substituted non-aromatic heterocycle.
 20. The method of claim 19, wherein R² is attached to the remainder of the compound by a nitrogen atom of R².
 21. The method of claim 1, wherein X is C(═O)—NH—†.
 22. The method of claim 1, wherein X is NH—C(═O)†.
 23. The method of claim 1, wherein the compound is any one of Compound Numbers 14, 94, 97, 98, 99, 100, 105, 119, 143, 159, 164, 165, 224, 225, 226, 230, 233, 301, 308, 318, 342, 344, 355, 370, 379, 424, 474, 479, 537, 577, 581, 586, 601, 638, 661, 665, 668, 684, 703, 761, 801, 806, 811, 812, 870, 880, 890, 918, 924, 925 928, 945, 953, 957, 958, 959, 966, 968, 969, 970, 974, 978, 979, 986, 990, 994, 998, 999, 1000, 1001, 1005, 1007, 1009, 1010, 1011, 1012, 1013, 1014, 1015, 1016, 1017, 1018, 1020, 1024, 1025, 1026, 1027, 1028, 1029, 1030, 1031, 1032, 1033, 1034, 1035, 1036, 1046, 1047, 1048, 1049, 1050, 1060, 1062, 1063, 1064, 1066, 1069, 1071, 1072, 1073, 1074, 1077, 1080, 1081, 1082, 1083, 1085, 1086, 1087, 1092, 1096 and
 1098. 